For the PNC, the anniversary marks a new chapter of its development, as well as an occasion to review the past and look into its work and services in future.

The guest of honour of the evening was Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai, who was joined by the two deputy commissioners and Assistant Commissioner (Operations).

PNC's counterparts from the United Kingdom, Canada and Japan joined the celebration dinner, and so did Mainland police negotiators from Beijing, Jinan, Wuhan, Fuzhou and Guangzhou. Also present were negotiators from Macao and the Correctional Services Department.

All PNC members, except those on overseas business trips, and their families turned out to meet their guests.

At the banquet, PNC members were given a pleasant surprise when Mr Lee presented them with Commissioner's Unit/Formation Commendation "for exceptionally high level of teamwork between 2003 and 2004, for consistently outstanding performance, for continuous improvements in its management and training systems, counter-terrorism readiness and its ability to provide the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government with a professional, effective and efficient negotiation service in crisis situations".

Working for a non-established unit, PNC members realise that their extra volunteer services carry heavy responsibilities. For them, the most treasured reward is saving lives and defusing crises without bloodshed.

PNC takes the opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Psychological Services Group and Communications Branch for their support over the years.

Commenting on PNC work, a member said: "The credits of successfully resolving a case go not only to us but also the various units which co-operate closely with us. When we are called out to an emergency at night, we think of our families; but we adhere steadfastly to PNC's vision and mission to continue serving the community to the best of our ability."

Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai presents Commissioner's Unit / Formation Commendation to PNC