More than 300 experts in emergency response, pre-hospital medical care and fire engineering from 15 countries and regions are participating in the Fire Asia 2018 international conference in Hong Kong.

The conference is being held at the Fire & Ambulance Services Academy from May 7 to 9, one of the key events to celebrate the Fire Services Department's 150th anniversary.

Participants will discuss the latest developments in firefighting and rescue, fire engineering and paramedics.

Speaking at the opening ceremony today, Secretary for Security John Lee said while Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world it must remain alert to threats like terrorism.

He said the Government recently established the Inter-departmental Counter-Terrorism Unit to enhance Hong Kong's counter-terrorism capability and preparedness.

The department, as a member of the unit and the frontline emergency responder to terrorist attacks, plays a pivotal role in counter-terrorism, Mr Lee added.