Hong Kong and Sichuan sign MOU on geo-hazard risk management (with photos)

     The Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) and the Department of Natural Resources of Sichuan Province signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today (May 29) to strengthen collaboration on technical exchange and co-operation on geo-hazard risk management. 
 
     The MOU was signed by the Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Ricky Lau, and the Deputy Director of the Department of Natural Resources of Sichuan Province, Mr Feng Bin. Under the MOU, Hong Kong and Sichuan agree to facilitate technical exchange on geo-hazard risk management, explore opportunities for research co-operation in geo-hazard mitigation, and enhance co-operation in staff training in pertinent areas.
 
     Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr Lau said that both Hong Kong and Sichuan face the threat of landslide hazards, and hence the two places have been in close co-operation in areas of geo-hazard risk assessment, early warning for geo-hazards, hazard mitigation and public education. The CEDD set up a permanent exhibition hall, the first of its kind in the Mainland, in Sichuan last year to present Hong Kong's experience and achievements in geo-hazard mitigation.
 
     Mr Lau added that the MOU could provide ample opportunities in further enhancing the geo-hazard risk management systems in the two places through technical exchange, research co-operation and staff training. This allows Hong Kong and Sichuan to better prepare for the challenges of climate change, with a view to jointly building a safer and more liveable environment.