In view of the current situation in Iraq, the Immigration Department has set up a 24-hour hotline - 852 2829 3010 - to handle enquiries and requests for assistance from Hong Kong residents there.

Hong Kong residents who are abroad and need assistance may also contact the Chinese Embassy or Consulate General at their destination. Their telephone numbers and addresses can be obtained from the Immigration Department on 2824  6111.

Hong Kong residents are reminded to watch closely developments in their destinations and pay attention to their personal safety when they plan to travel abroad or go on business trips.

In the event that the Chinese Embassy in Iraq needs to evacuate, Hong Kong residents who need assistance can call the Immigration Department's hotline, or the Chinese Embassy/Consulate General in neighbouring countries including Jordan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Kuwait and Syria.

Telephone numbers for these Chinese Embassies are listed below:

*Chinese Embassy in Iraq: 009 641-556 9964

*Chinese Embassy in Kuwait: 009 65-533 3341

*Chinese Embassy in Jordan: 009 62 6 551 5151

*Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia: 009 66 1 281 2090

*Chinese Embassy in Turkey: 009 031 2446 4726

*Chinese Embassy in Iran: 0098 21 229 1242

*Chinese Embassy in Syria: 009 63 11 333 9594