The visit of China’s first domestically built aircraft carrier, Shandong, and its escort fleet provides firsthand experience of national defense and boosts the national identity of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s residents, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on Thursday.

Speaking at a welcome ceremony at the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks — the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison’s naval base on Stonecutters Island — Lee described it as “inspiring” to witness the visit of Shandong and its escort fleet at this historical moment.

The visit coincides with three key milestones: the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, 28 years of PLA presence in the city, and the fifth anniversary of the promulgation of the Hong Kong SAR National Security Law (NSL).

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He thanked the central government for its support, noting that the Shandong, commissioned in 2019, marks the Chinese navy’s global prominence in domestically-built aircraft carriers.

It also reflects the nation’s rapid progress in defense technology and maritime strength.

The visit also commemorates the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in World War II, reminding the public of the nation’s resilience and hard-won prosperity and stability, Lee added.

On July 5 and 6, residents will have a rare chance to board the Shandong and its escort vessels, Zhanjiang and Yuncheng, to learn about the PLA’s role in protecting national sovereignty and stability.

The public tours are set to provide an immersive experience for the public to learn about national defense and forge their national identity while showcasing the nation’s pride in national defense, Lee said.

Demand for tour tickets had been overwhelming, with all slots snapped up in about a minute, Lee said.

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The deployment follows recent dual-carrier exercises in the western Pacific involving the Shandong and Liaoning, underscoring China’s expanding naval capability and good image, Lee said.

The visit of the Shandong also adds to the luster and glamour of The Pearl of the Orient and demonstrates the nation’s capability and resolve to help maintain global and regional safety and peace.

Hundreds of students waving national and regional flags welcomed the arrival of the fleet at the base. Residents also turned out in droves and waited at the harborfront of South Horizons of Hong Kong Island to capture the moment when the carrier and the fleet sailed into the city.

Contact the writer at lilei@chinadailyhk.com