China’s military to hold open days at barracks – but only for Chinese
PLA will give public a glimpse behind the scenes during national holidays, according to new directive
The People’s Liberation Army will give the public a glimpse behind the scenes of the world’s largest military force in the latest bid to improve its image.
Some PLA barracks are to hold open days during national holidays, giving the public a taste of army training and weapons, according to a new directive that took effect at the end of last month but was announced by the Central Military Commission (CMC) on Thursday.
But only Chinese citizens will be allowed – no foreigners will be given access unless they have special permission, the directive said.
And only certain barracks approved by the CMC will be open to the public. Anyone who wants to attend an open day will have to apply and undergo strict security checks before and after the visit.
With some 2.3 million troops, China has the world’s biggest army, but its military sites have long been off limits to the public.
Only recently, in 2013, did people in Guangzhou and Shanghai get the chance to tour the cities’ military barracks for the first time.
