The visit to Hong Kong by a People’s Liberation Army naval fleet fully demonstrates the central government’s profound care and steadfast support for the city, helping residents to strengthen their patriotism by witnessing the nation’s defense capabilities, Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki said on Monday.

He spoke at a farewell ceremony as the fleet, comprising the guided-missile destroyer Nanning and guided-missile frigate Hengyang, left the PLA Hong Kong Garrison’s naval base on Stonecutters Island at about 9 am after a five-day port call.

A military band was in attendance, with troops lining the pier and sailors waving from the decks, as the warships departed.

In a farewell message to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and residents, the fleet said its crew marveled at the “Pearl of the Orient’s brilliance and prosperity", and were heartened by the warmth, hospitality and patriotism of Hong Kong residents.

Chan said the central government had arranged for the vessels’ visit to mark the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, reflecting its deep care and steadfast support for the city.

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During the visit, thousands of residents, including young people and members of the Hong Kong and Macao communities, boarded the ships to see their equipment up close. Chan said he was particularly encouraged to see so many students and young people seizing the opportunity to engage with the vessels’ crew.

Through the event, he said, the younger generation has not only learned about naval technology, but also gained a sense of the crew’s resilience and duty, coming to understand that the soldiers bear the responsibility of defending the nation. The country encourages youth to integrate their personal aspirations into national development, and the warships’ visit has answered that call.

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“While experiencing the country’s defense strength, residents have rooted patriotism deep in their hearts,” Chan said.

The PLA fleet sailed into Hong Kong waters on Thursday morning and organized a series of exchange activities, including guided tours of the ship’s decks, military experience sessions, drill demonstrations and cultural performances, attracting more than 30,000 visitors from the Hong Kong and Macao SARs.

It was the first time the CNS Nanning and CNS Hengyang have visited Hong Kong and thrown open their doors to the public.