Hong Kong sends rescue team to Myanmar

The Hong Kong SAR government is deploying a rescue team to earthquake-stricken Myanmar to assist in search and rescue efforts, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on Saturday.

Lee expressed deep sorrow over the casualties caused by the quake and extended his condolences to the victims' families. On behalf of the HKSAR government and its citizens, he offered his profound sympathies to the bereaved families and affected residents.

The rescue team, composed of elite personnel, was mobilized swiftly after receiving instructions, demonstrating their selflessness and professionalism, Lee said.

He emphasized that the situation in the disaster zone remains unstable, requiring the team to be fully prepared and prioritize safety.

The Hong Kong leader added that the SAR government will provide all necessary support to ensure the team can carry out their mission safely and effectively.

It is understood that the rescue team deployed will be similar in size to the 59-strong search and rescue team sent to Turkey in the wake of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in February last year.