HKSAR Search and Rescue Team Returns After Successful Mission in Myanmar Earthquake Relief Efforts

HKSAR search and rescue team returns from Myanmar to Hong Kong (with photos/video)

The search and rescue team deployed by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government to the quake-stricken areas in Myanmar to assist in the search and rescue work returned to Hong Kong yesterday night (April 9) after completing its mission.

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Permanent Secretary for Security, Mr Patrick Li; the Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk; the Acting Director of Immigration, Mr Ching Wo-mok; and the Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (HA), Dr Tony Ko, welcomed the team at Hong Kong International Airport.

In his speech, Mr Lee said that the search and rescue team members overcame numerous difficulties and raced against time through their professional training, determined will and immense courage, fully demonstrating the professionalism in fearlessly braving challenges and caring for those in distress.

Upon completion of the operation in Mantalay, Myanmar, the China and the HKSAR search and rescue teams arrived in Beijing yesterday afternoon. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; and the Director of Fire Services, Mr Andy Yeung, welcomed the teams at Beijing Capital International Airport and flew to Hong Kong together with the HKSAR search and rescue team yesterday night.

The HKSAR search and rescue team departed for Myanmar on the afternoon of March 29 to conduct search and rescue work in Mantalay, one of the most devastated areas in Myanmar. The team conducted joint operations with the China search and rescue teams for days and successfully rescued one survivor. In addition, the HKSAR team found two bodies under the debris.

The 51-strong HKSAR search and rescue team, led by Deputy Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Services Department (FSD) Mr Cheu Yu-kok, comprises 40 members of the FSD, including firemen, ambulancemen and fire services workshops personnel, as well as officers from the Security Bureau, the Immigration Department and the HA.

HKSAR search and rescue team returns from Myanmar to Hong Kong Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR search and rescue team returns from Myanmar to Hong Kong Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR search and rescue team returns from Myanmar to Hong Kong Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR search and rescue team returns from Myanmar to Hong Kong Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO, Brussels co-hosts Hong Kong Night at Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) co-hosted the Hong Kong Night on April 30 (Udine time), which was organised by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, and the Hong Kong Film Development Council at the 27th Far East Film Festival (FEFF) in Udine, Italy from April 24 to May 2.

Speaking at the Hong Kong Night, the Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Li remarked that, "For decades, Hong Kong has stood as a vibrant global film hub. From adrenaline-pumping action thrillers, gripping crime dramas and kung-fu epics, to laugh-out-loud comedies and deeply moving romances, our films reflect the artistic spirit, unmatched creativity, and distinctive character of our city. Our filmmakers have not only entertained but also influenced cinema around the world."

She concluded her speech by inviting audiences to visit Hong Kong in person to stroll through the iconic filming locations, dive into its vibrant stores and experience first-hand Hong Kong's dynamic energy and cinematic soul.

The FEFF is one of the largest film festivals in Europe, showcasing the latest productions from Asia and receiving significant national and international interest from the film industry, cultural sector and media. At this year's FEFF, international audiences in Italy are being treated to a special selection of films titled "Making Waves - Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema" ("Making Waves"), which showcased films from both the established and the new and emerging talents. The "Making Waves" featured ten new and reprospective films, including restored classics from Hong Kong during the festival.

HKETO, Brussels co-hosts Hong Kong Night at Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO, Brussels co-hosts Hong Kong Night at Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO, Brussels co-hosts Hong Kong Night at Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO, Brussels co-hosts Hong Kong Night at Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases