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Premier Wen Jiabao this afternoon (June 30) visited the Genome Research Centre at the University of Hong Kong and talked to students at the Yu Chun Keung Medical Library.
The Premier, accompanied by Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa, was briefed by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Shiu-kum Lam, on the history of the faculty, while Department of Microbiology head Professor Kwok-yung Yuen explained the university's research into Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
Premier Wen then viewed the coronavirus through a microscope and participated in a live video link to the Microbiology Laboratory at the Queen Mary Hospital.
Shortly after, at the Yu Chun Keung Medical Library, the Premier met a group of undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers and members of the University of Hong Kong Faculty of Medicine. He praised the institution's high standards and encouraged the group to continue their dedicated hard work.
Late this afternoon, Premier Wen attended a reception in the Grand Foyer of the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre for those who selflessly fought against SARS.
More than 200 guests representing medical and healthcare staff in the public and private sectors, non-governmental organisations of the social services sector, schools and education sector, scientists and academics, staff of government departments involved in fighting SARS and SARS-related fund-raisers attended the gathering.
Mr Tung presented plaques to representatives of five sectors that have contributed to the fight against SARS.
The event was organised by the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau.
End/Monday, June 30, 2003
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