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In view of the latest situation in Thailand, a spokesman for the Security Bureau today (November 28) advised Hong Kong residents to avoid unnecessary travel to Bangkok. Those who are already in Bangkok should attend to their personal safety and avoid places where there are demonstrations or large gatherings of people.
The spokesman said: "The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been keeping a close liaison with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in Hong Kong to keep in view the situation in Thailand. We will continue to closely monitor developments. In deciding whether or not to take a further step and issue a travel warning, the Security Bureau will consider the risks to the personal safety of Hong Kong residents in the light of the latest situation. We understand that Bangkok is generally calm except for some areas (mainly near Bangkok International Airport and Government House)."
Hong Kong residents in Thailand who need assistance may call the Hong Kong Immigration Department's 24-hour hotline at (852) 1868 or the Chinese Embassy in Thailand at (66) 818214771 or (66) 819840658.
From November 26 to 11am today (November 28), the Immigration Department received 510 enquiries and 84 requests for assistance in relation to the situation in Thailand. The requests are being followed up.
Ends/Friday, November 28, 2008
Issued at HKT 12:12
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