The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government Tuesday warned its residents traveling to Thailand of safety following an official announcement of state of emergency in Thailand.

The Hong Kong Security Bureau said in a bulletin that Hong Kong residents traveling to Thailand should keep themselves up to date on developments in the country and avoid large gatherings or demonstrations.

Anyone needing assistance in Thailand can contact the local Chinese Embassy, or call the Hong Kong Immigration Department's 24-hour hotline, (852)1868, the bureau said, adding the HKSAR government will continue to monitor the situation.

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on Tuesday morning declared a state of emergency in the capital Bangkok following violent clashes between the pro and anti-government protesters in early morning.

(Xinhua News Agency September 3, 2008)