A Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy task force received a warm welcome from officials and residents as it started a five-day visit to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on Thursday.

A welcoming ceremony for the arrival of the guided-missile destroyer CNS Nanning and guided-missile frigate CNS Hengyang was held at Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu described the task force’s decision to open its ships for a public tour as "a rare opportunity", as it allowed residents to personally experience the strength of the nation's military.

During the warships’ stay, residents will participate in public tours and exchange activities to learn about the nation's defense development and military modernization.

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