Speaking at the opening ceremony of the course, Director of Personnel and Training Tsang Wai-hung said that the training exchange programme under the agreement started in 2002 with two courses. The number has increased to six courses per year, indicating that the programme is highly valued by the Force and the Ministry of Public Security in that it provides an opportunity for both parties to widen their horizons.

"Those interactive learning and experience sharing courses can reinforce mutual understanding and build up friendship. More importantly, those who have attended the training course can share their experiences with colleagues on returning to their jobs. That is the objective of the programme," Mr Tsang added.

Having met representatives of different units, the delegates enhanced their knowledge about the Force's management and operation, such as recruitment, promotion system, basic training, tactics training, use of weapons, detective training, operation and contingency planning, crisis management, major incidents and crowd management, etc.

The training course also included modern management modules, with the delegates attending a seminar on Modern Strategic Management organised by the Asia-Pacific Institute of Business of the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

As well as visits to Police Training School, MIIDSS, PTU, RCCC NTN and Tin Sum Police Station, the delegates also observed crowd management operations during horse racing at Happy Valley, gaining a clearer picture of the different facets of police work.

Speaking at the delegates' graduation ceremony, Acting Assistant Commissioner (Training) To Chun-wai pointed out that in a fast changing society, the Force and the Public Security Bureau are facing similar challenges and both parties are learning from each other and achieving synergy.

Training Exchange Programme forges closer ties between Hong Kong and Mainland