Ma Lik, chairman of Hong Kong's largest political party -- the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) has died of colon cancer Wednesday at the age of 55 in Guangzhou, capital of southern China's Guangdong Province, the party said.

During his medical treatment in Guangzhou, leaders of the central and Guangdong provincial governments, and principal officials of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) governments paid visits to Ma.

HKSAR Chief Executive Donald Tsang issued a statement shortly after Ma's death, expressing his profound sadness at Ma's passing away, extending his deepest condolences to Ma's family on behalf of the HKSAR government.

"I was deeply saddened to hear of his death," he said.

Describing Ma as "a committed political leader with vision and a passion for Hong Kong and the motherland", Tsang said Ma will be remembered for his "distinguished service" to the community, in particular his active involvement in the drafting and promotion of the Basic Law, and his considerable contribution to the smooth transition of Hong Kong and the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems".

Being a Hong Kong deputy to the National People's Congress, or China's top legislature, Ma was also Councilor of the Legislative Council of HKSAR. Ma was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star in 2005.

Mrs. Rita Fan, President of the Legislative Council, also released a statement on behalf of the Legislative Council, extending my deepest condolences to Ma's family.

"The passing of Mr. Ma is a grievous loss not only to the Legislative Council but also to Hong Kong," Fan said. "I was deeply saddened to learn Ma's passing away."

Fan said Ma's "dedication, frankness and competence" earned their respect and recognition and he will be fondly remembered for his contribution to the legislature and to Hong Kong.

(Xinhua News Agency August 8, 2007)