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Commander of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Garrison in Hong Kong Major General Zhang Shibo today (January 25) inspected a passing-out parade at the Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development in Tuen Mun as the reviewing officer. Major General Zhang praised the Immigration Department for faithfully enforcing the law and successfully accomplishing important missions, thereby contributing to the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.
"Over the 10 years since the return of Hong Kong to its motherland, the Immigration Department has constantly faced new challenges, but it is always unswervingly committed to upholding the Basic Law and faithfully enforcing the laws of Hong Kong. Its duties are extremely arduous. To cope with the ever-increasing number of passengers, it needs to deliver efficient service for visitors while preventing the entry of undesirables," Major General Zhang said.
"With closer ties between the Mainland and Hong Kong, the department inaugurated the operation of the Shenzhen Bay and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Points last year. To bring the advantages of 'One Country, Two Systems' into full play, the department has ensured maximum facilitation to cross-boundary passengers by providing support to the 'co-location' arrangement at the Shenzhen Bay Control Point, through which the clearance time for passengers and vehicles is greatly reduced. The position of Hong Kong as a regional business and logistics hub is thus further consolidated," he said.
He also expressed confidence in the department's review of its current grade structure and work procedures which he said he believed would boost the perseverance and flexibility of its staff and enhance the department's capability.
"The year 2008 is a milestone for the Chinese people. It is less than 200 days (196) to the opening of the Olympic Games in Beijing. While the hosting of the Olympic Games by our country is a sign of her growing prosperity and strength, Hong Kong co-hosting the Olympic equestrian events also shows that Hong Kong is ready to show the world its charm as an international metropolis and its vigour and ability in organising a major sporting event. I am sure all the staff in the Immigration Department are already well prepared for maintaining effective immigration control and contributing to the smooth proceedings of the Olympic equestrian events," he said.
Major General Zhang Shibo said the Immigration Department still had a prominent role to play in maintaining the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, upholding the Basic Law and enshrining the principle of "One Country, Two Systems". He encouraged officers to cherish every learning opportunity, exercise restraint and abide by the law, understand the country and contribute to a flourishing China.
Taking part in today's passing-out parade were 38 Immigration Officers and 156 Immigration Assistants who had successfully completed induction training.
Ends/Friday, January 25, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:34
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