Press Releases

HK and France sign MOU on co-operation in public health

The Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr York Chow, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minister for Social Security, the Elderly, the Disabled and the Family, Mr Philippe Bas, on April 21 (French time) in Paris aiming to strengthen ties between the two places to protect public health.

Under the memorandum, both sides agreed to co-operate and develop exchanges on such issues as public health policies and emergency planning and response for major public health incidents.

The Hong Kong SAR and French governments would respectively designate representatives to be responsible for the collaborations.

Dr Chow said closer collaboration with other places was imperative and would enhance Hong Kong's preparedness in preventing and fighting against emerging infectious diseases.

"Through the strengthening of ties after the signing of the memorandum, I believe that both sides could respond more effectively to public health issues involving the two places that may arise in future.

"As part of China, Hong Kong would continue to work within the World Health Organisation family on public health measures and participate actively in global endeavours to share experience and expertise," he added.

Earlier in the day, Dr Chow called at the National Health Insurance Fund for Salaried Workers to learn about the medical insurance system of the country.

Dr Chow will visit the Georges Pompidou European Hospital and Institut Pasteur in Paris before continuing his duty visit to London.


Ends/Friday, April 21, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:18

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