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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, stressed the importance of preparedness for avian influenza at a meeting with leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) member economies today (November 19, Busan time).
Mr Tsang said that thorough preparations had to be well in place in order to respond in a timely and appropriate manner in the event of an outbreak of avian influenza."
"Hong Kong has remained avian flu free despite the occurrence of outbreaks in the poultry population in the region. We are well-prepared for a possible outbreak of the disease," he said.
The Chief Executive spoke on the preparatory measures taken by Hong Kong, including drawing up and updating the Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic, stepping up surveillance, establishing effective response mechanisms, reviewing infection control measures, stepping up public education on preparedness, and stockpiling antiviral.
"We also maintain effective communication and strengthen cooperation with international organisations and relevant authorities in other places, in particular our neighbouring places including the Mainland of China and Macao in the combat and control of infectious diseases. Infectious diseases know no boundaries. So, global and regional collaboration is crucial," Mr Tsang said.
The Chief Executive welcomed the proposed APEC Initiative on Preparing for and Mitigating an Influenza Pandemic under which member economies agree to work collectively and individually in pandemic influenza. "We stand ready to contribute to the initiative," he said.
In addition, Mr Tsang spoke on Hong Kong's three-pronged strategy through effective enforcement, prevention and education in its successful campaign against corruption. He also shared Hong Kong's efforts in combating terrorism.
Other topics discussed at today's APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting under the agenda "A Safe and Transparent Asia-Pacific Region" included disaster preparedness and energy security.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Executive held a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during which they discussed strengthening bilateral economic and trade ties and exchanged views on combating avian influenza.
Mr Tsang also attended the Hong Kong-Thailand Agreement for Investment Promotion and Protection Signing Ceremony after the bilateral meeting.
The annual APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting will be hosted by Viet Nam next year.
The Chief Executive has left Busan for Hong Kong today.
Ends/Saturday, November 19, 2005
Issued at HKT 18:08
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