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Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC), Mr Zhang Dejiang, will visit Hong Kong from May 17 to 19 to attend the "Belt and Road Summit" and other events.
"Police are duty-bound to implement counter terrorism security measures to ensure the personal safety of the Chairman of NPCSC and other international dignitaries during the visit and the events be conducted in a safe and orderly manner," a Police spokesman said.
"Appropriate counter terrorism security measures including personal and traffic escort will be provided to the Chairman of NPCSC throughout his stay in Hong Kong. Temporary traffic and pedestrian access diversion may occur, including temporary closure of flyovers and footbridges during the passage of the motorcade. These arrangements may cause inconvenience to members of the public and other road users.
"We appeal to the public for their understanding and patience. Police officers will give appropriate direction at scene. Police Community Relations Officers of affected districts will also advise the local and neighbourhood groups on the impact of the arrangements," he said.
In addition, press areas will be set up outside the venues where the "Belt and Road Summit" and related events take place to facilitate media reporting. Also public activity areas will be designated outside the security zones.
"Police respect the rights of peaceful public procession, meeting and expression of views. The Force's policy is to facilitate all peaceful public events while taking responsibility to ensure public safety and public order with effective measures. We will continue to discharge our duties in a fair and impartial manner and facilitate the orderly and safe conduct of public events," the spokesman stressed.
"We appeal to the public who will participate in the public events to observe the arrangements agreed by the organiser and Police, and to follow the instructions of the organiser's marshals and police officers at scene.
"Organisers intend to hold any relevant public event are urged to contact Police as soon as possible so as to discuss relevant arrangements and facilitate the event to be conducted in a lawful and orderly manner," he said.
Since the arrangements will have a greater impact on the traffic of Admiralty and Wan Chai North, motorists are urged to avoid driving to the areas. If they need to go to the areas, they are advised to plan early and follow the instructions of the police officers at scene.
"While striving to ensure a safe visit of the Chairman of NPCSC, Police will keep inconvenience to the public to a minimum," the spokesman said.
Ends/Sunday, May 15, 2016
Issued at HKT 20:52
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