Government issues amber outbound travel alert for Russia
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     Expressing concern about the explosion at the Domodedovo Airport in Moscow, Russia, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government issued an amber outbound travel alert (OTA) for Russia today (January 25).  Those who plan to visit the country should monitor the situation and exercise caution. Those already there should attend to their personal safety.  Residents are advised to check the status of their flights and follow the advice of local authorities, as appropriate.  

     A government spokesman said, "The Security Bureau will continue to liaise with the office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in Hong Kong and the Chinese Embassy in Russia to closely monitor the situation.  It will review the situation and raise the alert level if necessary, taking into account updates from various sources."

     The Security Bureau will maintain close liaison with the trade through the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, on the need for necessary safety measures, including possible adjustments to the travel itinerary, taking account of developments.

     Any update will be issued through the media and the OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).

     Residents who need assistance while outside Hong Kong may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department at (852) 1868.

Ends/Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Issued at HKT 21:03

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