Chinese navy to make regular visits to Hong Kong, in move praised by analysts
Analysts say presence of PLA Navy ships will show country’s military might to residents and improve sense of national identity and pride
The Chinese navy will start making regular visits to Hong Kong, in a move analysts have said will help boost national identity and pride.
Senior Colonel Wu Qian, from the Ministry of National Defence, made the announcement on Thursday after two of the country’s vessels arrived in the city last week for a five-day visit.
“In recent years, the navy has held many open days in coastal cities both at home and abroad, displaying its confidence and openness,” Wu said.
“In the future, the People’s Liberation Army Navy will make visits to Hong Kong on a regular basis.”
The amphibious assault ship Hainan and the guided-missile destroyer Changsha held a series of activities during their visit last week, including deck receptions, open days, national defence lectures and cultural exchanges.
“Between November 22 and 24, Hainan and Changsha were respectively open to the public, and were visited by over 15,000 residents, students and officials from Hong Kong and Macau with an enthusiastic response,” Wu said.
About 700 students also attended seminars to understand the achievements of the Chinese navy.
