The Force and the Mainland would exchange instructors and lecturers for strengthening training on both sides, and both parties had also agreed to arrange special training on the use of firearms, as well as on negotiation skills, said Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai after attending the 15th Bilateral Meeting between the Force and the Ministry of Public Security from November 20 to 23.

The Police College, the Chinese People's Public Security University and the Guangdong Police Officers College would further deepen student exchange programmes, with emphasis on policing work, he added.

The Commissioner led a delegation of seven officers from various departments in the Force to meet representatives from the Ministry of Public Security in Beijing, the Shanghai Public Security Bureau and the Guangdong Public Security Department.

"We reviewed the progress and effectiveness of the co-operation between the Force and our Mainland counterparts in the past year. Discussions covered a wide range of topics such as cross-boundary crimes, drugs trafficking, triad activities, smuggling, illegal off-course betting, commercial crime, technology crime and illegal immigration.

"Both parties are satisfied with the progress and achievements made in these areas in the past year," said Mr Lee.

On further co-operation between the Force and the Mainland, Mr Lee said both parties had agreed to strengthen exchange of intelligence and co-operation in investigating money-laundering activities.

"We will use successful examples as case studies for our officers. By doing so, I hope we can enhance their performances and skills," he noted.

In conclusion, the Commissioner said the meeting had achieved good results, and helped both parties reach a strategic approach for co-operation for the next few years.