The search and rescue team deployed by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to the quake-stricken areas of Myanmar to assist in the search and rescue work, returned to Hong Kong last night after completing its mission.

Chief Executive John Lee welcomed the team at Hong Kong International Airport.

In his speech, Mr Lee said that the search and rescue team members overcame numerous difficulties and raced against time through their professional training, determined will and immense courage, fully demonstrating professionalism in fearlessly braving challenges and caring for those in distress.

Upon completion of the operation in Mantalay, Myanmar, the China and the Hong Kong SAR search and rescue teams arrived in Beijing yesterday afternoon.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung and Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung welcomed the teams at Beijing Capital International Airport then flew to Hong Kong together with the Hong Kong SAR search and rescue team last night.

The Hong Kong SAR search and rescue team departed for Myanmar on March 29 to conduct search and rescue work in Mantalay - one of the worst-hit areas.

The team conducted joint operations with the China search and rescue teams for days and successfully rescued one survivor. In addition, the Hong Kong SAR team found two bodies under the debris.

The 51-strong Hong Kong SAR search and rescue team comprised firemen, ambulancemen and fire services workshops personnel, as well as officers from the Security Bureau, the Immigration Department and the Hospital Authority.