China's State Council, or cabinet, on Monday announced a decision to appoint Chan Kwok-ki as the director of the Immigration Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Chan has replaced Peh Yun-lu, former director of the department, according to a statement released Monday by the State Council.

The decision was made in accordance with the basic law as well as the nomination and recommendation of HKSAR Chief Executive Donald Tsang, said the statement.