PLA Garrison in Hong Kong open barracks to public

To celebrate the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationing in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Garrison of the PLA held an open day event on Saturday and Sunday, inviting Hong Kong residents to visit the barracks in Ngong Shuen Chau, Shek Kong, and San Wai.

A grand flag-raising ceremony was held at Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks on Saturday. As the national anthem played, residents and garrison personnel stood at attention, saluted the national flag and sang the national anthem.

"Hearing the national anthem fills me with pride and honor as a Chinese. Only when the country grows stronger and more prosperous can Hong Kong's future shine brighter," said a Hong Kong resident.

In the weapon and equipment exhibition area, residents observed military vehicles, boarded naval vessels, and tried their hands at simulated shooting under the soldiers' guidance.

A helicopter flight demonstration drew large crowds at the Shek Kong Barracks, with pilots expertly performing stunts such as sharp dives and sudden climbs.

This marks the 35th open day held by the garrison, which has received 930,000 visits over the past 28 years.

The Chinese military has continued to conduct combat readiness patrols in the territorial waters of and airspace over the Huangyan Dao as well as the surrounding areas in the South China Sea since the beginning of December, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command said Wednesday.

The PLA Southern Theater Command said it has deployed naval and air forces troops to reinforce patrols and vigilance, further strengthening control and management over the relevant areas.

The move has effectively addressed various infringement and provocations, with an aim to safeguard China's sovereignty and security while maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea, according to the PLA Southern Theater Command.