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An international outreach programme has been launched by the Government to convey the message that travel to Hong Kong is safe and that the SARS outbreak is being contained.

The programme includes the placement of newspaper advertisements overseas, the launch of a website and a worldwide e-mailing exercise.

This is part of a series of activities that will take place in the months ahead to relaunch Hong Kong's economy.

Today saw the first appearance of advertisements that have been placed in 26 leading newspapers throughout Europe, Asia and Australia.

"We wish to reassure people that it is safe to visit us and that SARS is being contained," said the Director of Information Services, Miss Yvonne Choi.

"We must also reinforce the message that Hong Kong remains vigilant and that careful measures are in place to protect public health.

"Importantly, we must also convey the vitality and spirit of Hong Kong. Along these lines, the theme of our efforts is Hong Kong Looking Ahead," Miss Choi said.

A new website has also been launched today. The website address - www.HKLookingAhead.gov.hk - is featured on the newspaper advertisements.

The website will provide updates about Hong Kong's economic relaunch plans, as well as links to a range of sites containing information about doing business in and visiting Hong Kong. The website will be expanded on an ongoing basis.

Expanding on efforts already begun in the community, the website provides an easy way to send e-cards around the world. Later next week, 1 million postcards will be available for members of the public to send free of charge to their friends all over the world.

An electronic version of the advertisement and our messages have also been sent to representatives of the international community in Hong Kong.

They have been invited to participate in our effort to spread the messages to their contacts around the world.

End/Friday, May 30, 2003

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