A delegation sent by the Chinese central authorities arrived in Lhasa, capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, Saturday to attend the celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the founding of the ethnic autonomous region in southwest China.

The delegation is headed by Jia Qinglin, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

Upon its arrival at Lhasa airport, the delegation was warmly received by the Party, government and army leaders of the autonomous region and local people from all walks of life.

The airport and main streets in Lhasa were permeated with a festive atmosphere. Warm crowds who stood along local streets with festive decorations, presenting gifts to the delegation, chanting welcoming words, and dancing to festive tunes.

Among the welcoming crowds were Raidi, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), and Pagbalha Geleg Namgyai, vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, both of whom are deputy leader of the delegation.

Ngapoi Ngawang Jigme, deputy head of the delegation, who is now in Beijing has sent a festive message to the Tibetan people.

(Xinhua News Agency August 28, 2005)