John Lee, chief executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said on Monday that the central government has agreed to gift another pair of giant pandas to the HKSAR.

Expressing gratitude, Lee highlighted the significance of the gift. "This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which makes this gift even more special," Lee said.

Lee made the announcement at a reception after a flag-raising ceremony marking the 27th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China.

The previous pairs of giant pandas given by the central government have accompanied generations of Hong Kong people, which is a collective memory for all, he said.

"The new pair of giant pandas will become close 'family members' of Hong Kong people, bringing us laughter and joy," he added.

The HKSAR government has started preparatory work to welcome the giant pandas to Hong Kong, he said. 

In preparation for their arrival, the HKSAR government has been coordinating with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council and the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. Work has begun to ensure that Hong Kong Ocean Park is fully equipped to care for the new pandas, a spokesperson for the HKSAR government said.

The HKSAR government is confident that preparations will be completed smoothly, with detailed arrangements to be announced in due course, the spokesperson added.

Hong Kong Ocean Park confirmed on Monday that the new pair of giant pandas will arrive before October 1, National Day, allowing Hong Kong residents to celebrate the occasion with their new friends.

(With input from Xinhua)