Jointly organized by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and Interpol for the first time in Hong Kong, the conference "Partnership Against Corruption" was opened by Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Tung Chee Hwa.

In his speech, Noble noted that success in anti-corruption work required dedicated, professional and well-trained personnel such as the ICAC.

As to the relationship between Interpol and the ICAC, Noble highlighted the importance of partnerships, which means cooperation and liaison, and sharing of information and expertise.

ICAC Commissioner Ambrose Lee Siu-kwong noted that Interpol has been committed to advocating the importance of law enforcement integrity, and the adoption of an international approach in tackling the problem of global corruption.

"In co-hosting the conference with the Interpol, the ICAC recognizes the Interpol's initiatives and contribution to the global partnership against corruption," Lee said.

According to Lee, the ICAC has already made 96 requests in the past five years for assistance from Interpol, compared with 145 such requests in the decade prior to Hong Kong's return to the motherland, which shows a growing need for international efforts in corruption investigation.

"Multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional partnership is the effective and right approach in fighting against corruption today," the ICAC Commissioner stressed.

More than 500 delegates from 61 jurisdictions and eight international organizations participate in the conference. They will exchange anti-corruption experiences and explore latest strategies at the forum, which is to continue until Friday.

(Xinhua News Agency January 22, 2003)