Beijing: In the wake of the devastating high-rise blaze in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, Chinese President Xi Jinping has allocated 2 million yuan (approximately $282,470) to the Red Cross Society of China to bolster emergency rescue and humanitarian operations. The funds are intended to support ongoing search efforts for missing residents, provide immediate relief to those affected, and address further disaster-related needs as they arise.
The Red Cross Society of China announced on social media that the allocation would fund “emergency rescue and humanitarian assistance related to the fire” and emphasized that additional support would be provided in line with evolving requirements on the ground. The organization is coordinating with local authorities to ensure resources reach frontline responders and displaced residents efficiently.
President Xi also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and called on officials from China’s Central Committee and the Hong Kong Liaison Office to mobilize fully in support of the city’s relief operations. He urged authorities to “do everything possible” to minimize casualties, assist the injured, and mitigate the widespread impact of the disaster.
Hong Kong, a densely populated hub of international commerce, operates under a semi-autonomous system with its own government while remaining under Beijing’s ultimate authority. The pledge of funds from the Chinese leadership underscores the central government’s commitment to supporting Hong Kong in one of the most severe residential fire crises in its recent history.
The city continues to grapple with the aftermath of the blaze, which has claimed dozens of lives and left hundreds unaccounted for, as rescue teams work tirelessly amid ongoing safety and structural concerns.