A set of special stamps will be issued on June 28 to mark the 600th Anniversary of Zheng He's Maritime Expeditions in the 15th century, the Postmaster General Allan Chiang announced.

Zheng He, an important historical figure, commanded seven expeditions to the "Western Oceans" on royal orders between 1405 AD and 1433. Steered by stars and directed by the compass, his fleet used nautical astronomy and geonavigation to visit more than 30 countries and regions in Asia and Africa, successfully extending Chinese influence in culture and technology as well as fostering trade and goodwill.

Zheng He's impressive flotilla comprised more than 200 ships and a crew of more than 20,000. The 100 meter long flagships, known as "treasure ships," sailed in convoy with a fleet of battleships, combat billets, supply ships, water tankers and horse ships. The size of the fleets sent, the equipment used and the distance traveled all demonstrated that nautical technology in China during the Ming Dynasty was well ahead of other maritime powers.

Hongkong Post, China Post and Macao Post will each issue a set of three commemorative stamps and a stamp sheetlet on June 28. This is the fifth stamp issue jointly issued by the three postal administrations.

The three 1.40 HK-dollar stamps issued by Hongkong Post depict a likeness of Zheng He, exploration, trade and diplomacy and seamanship, and the science of navigation. The 10 HK-dollar (1.28 US dollars) stamp sheetlet features Zheng He's mighty fleet.

"These stamps commemorate the first of Zheng He's seven voyages, " Chiang said. "They are meant to remind us of the determination and enterprising spirit of Zheng He, whose formidable explorations were unparalleled in the world's maritime history."

The mini-pane and stamp sheetlet are designed by Carl Cheng and printed in lithography by Beijing Stamp Printing Factory.