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The Secretary of Security, Mrs Regina Ip, today (October 14)signed an agreement on exemption of visa requirements with the State Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Mr Jaroslav Chlebo.

"The Agreement gives visa-free access for a period up to 14 days to HKSAR passport holders visiting the Slovak Republic", a Government spokesman said.

Nationals of the Slovak Republic will likewise enjoy 14 days' visa-free access to Hong Kong.

"We welcome the Agreement, which enhances the travel convenience of HKSAR passport holders and helps promote trade, business and tourism links between Hong Kong and the Slovak

Republic", the spokesman said.

There are now 72 countries/territories granting visa-free access to HKSAR passport holders.

End/Saturday, October 14, 2000

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