【明報專訊】THE GOVERNMENT has further relaxed social distancing measures. At the same time, it is planning to establish a network of ''travel bubbles'', with the authorities saying that they are having negotiations with eleven countries. With the third wave of COVID-19 infections easing, many social and economic activities are ready for an orderly resumption. Hong Kong being a highly open economy, if industries such as conferencing and exhibitions are to be restarted, it is necessary to at least open its door to visitors from other regions. The key is proper risk control. What happened in May and June, when the exemption of sailors and crew members from quarantine arrangements created loopholes in the anti-pandemic system, must be avoided. In the new normal of the pandemic, the establishment of travel bubbles is necessary. The government must choose the countries to collaborate with based on an objective evaluation of how a country is affected by the pandemic rather than subjective preferences. Even if that country is an important trading partner or a popular destination for tourists, it must not be given the green light if the pandemic has not been brought under control there or there are apparent inadequacies in its anti-pandemic measures. Europe saw a sharp rebound of cases after it hastily relaxed travel restrictions in July. The Hong Kong government must adopt a phased and gradual approach and act cautiously when building travel bubbles.