Government officials and community leaders of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region hailed the People’s Liberation Army naval fleet’s visit to Hong Kong as a powerful demonstration of the central government’s profound care and steadfast support for the city — especially its youth.

They said the event had strengthened residents’ patriotism as they witnessed firsthand the nation’s defense capabilities.

The PLA Navy fleet, comprising the guided-missile destroyer CNS Nanning and guided-missile frigate CNS Hengyang, left the PLA Hong Kong Garrison’s naval base on Ngong Shuen Chau at about 9 am on Monday after a five-day port call.

Since its arrival on Thursday, the fleet organized a series of exchange activities, including guided tours of the ships’ decks, military experience sessions, drill demonstrations, and cultural performances, attracting more than 30,000 visitors from Hong Kong and Macao.

A military band was in attendance as the warships departed, with troops lining the pier and sailors waving from the decks. The fleet, in a farewell message to the Hong Kong SAR government and residents, 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.

During the farewell ceremony, Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki said the central government had arranged 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.

Chan said he was particularly encouraged to see so many students and young people seizing the opportunity to engage with the vessels’ respective crews.

Through the event, the younger generation not only learned about naval technology, but also gained a sense of the crew’s resilience and duty, coming to understand that the military forces bear the responsibility of defending the nation, he said.

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

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Hong Kong lawmaker Priscilla Leung Mei-fun said the port call was well-organized, and the number of participants was highly encouraging.

Leung, who is also a veteran barrister and legal professor, called the event “a vivid and profound lesson in patriotism” that helped residents see the military’s dedication and advances in defense technology, and understand that a strong military is the bedrock of national security and Hong Kong SAR’s stability and prosperity.

Leung also said that what moved her most was seeing many young people express genuine pride and a sense of belonging to the country as they visited the ships, which shows that patriotism grows naturally through real-life experiences.

Victor Kwok Hoi-kit, a member of the All-China Youth Federation, told China Daily that the fleet’s visit powerfully demonstrates the central government’s care and support for Hong Kong and its young people.

Kwok, who is involved in youth policy research and national security education, said he feels “proud and inspired”.

READ MORE: Residents tour PLA ships to celebrate 29th anniversary of HK's return to motherland

“The visit reinforces my commitment to helping more young Hong Kong people connect with these (national) achievements so that our generation can step forward with confidence to serve both Hong Kong and the motherland,” he said.

Contact the writers at gangwen@chinadailyhk.com