The 35th International Railway Safety Council Annual Conference commenced in Hong Kong today.

Jointly organised by the National Railway Administration (NRA), the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department and the Mass Transit Railway Corporation (MTRC), the conference is co-hosted by the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong for the first time, showcasing the close collaboration between the two places in railway safety and regulation, as well as their influence on the global railway professional field.

Chief Executive John Lee, NRA Deputy Administrator Wang Qiming and MTRC Chairman Rex Auyeung officiated at the opening ceremony. Also in attendance was Secretary for Transport & Logistics Mable Chan.

With the theme “Advancing Railway Safety through Innovations & Collaborations”, the conference features four days of plenary sessions and two days of technical visits. It provides a platform for railway safety regulators, operators and stakeholders from around the world to discuss global railway safety issues, and to have exchanges on the latest developments and innovative technology applications of railways.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Lee said that railways serve as a powerful engine driving connectivity, resilience and progress.

He expressed confidence that by prioritising safety, embracing innovation and deepening collaboration, the industry will enhance lives and connect countries and communities around the world.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government considers that the introduction of Chinese Mainland railway standards can help Hong Kong make better use of Chinese Mainland resources in order to effectively reduce costs and shorten construction periods, while maintaining safety and service levels. The Highways Department expects to complete formulating the new Hong Kong Railway Standards in the coming weeks.