Chinese icebreaker Xue Long 2’s expedition team hopeful of Hong Kong role in future polar missions, as vessel arrives on 5-day visit
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Top officials, lawmakers and residents welcomed the ship on Monday morning as it docked in Tsim Sha Tsui for a five-day visit, its first stop at a Chinese port on its return journey from Antarctica.
Professor Ho Kin-chung, founder of visit organisers the Green Future Foundation Association and Polar Research Institute of Hong Kong, said mainland Chinese authorities had pledged to include Hongkongers in future expeditions.
“We had a relaxed exchange with visiting mainland officials who made a verbal promise that Hong Kong scientists would be able to participate in Xue Long 2’s future missions,” he said ahead of the welcoming ceremony.
Expedition deputy leader Wang Jinhui said he would welcome the contribution of Hong Kong scientists and businesses.
“I hope Hong Kong’s scientists will participate more in our work. We also welcome industry participation in support and protection work,” Wang said.
