The Hong Kong government on Friday signed a readmission agreement with Norway to enhance cooperation in combating illegal immigration, according to the Hong Kong immigration department.

Director of Immigration Lai Tung-kwok, on behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), signed a bilateral agreement on the readmission of persons residing without authorization with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to China.

"The agreement provides a basis for Hong Kong and the Kingdom of Norway to ensure, on a reciprocal basis, the timely and effective identification and return of people illegally entering or remaining in their respective territories," a spokesperson for the Immigration Department said.

The agreement, designed to enhance international cooperation in combating illegal immigration, will come into force after internal procedures required for its entry into force are completed.

The HKSAR has so far signed similar readmission agreements with Switzerland, Germany and the European Community.

Source: Xinhua