Two Chinese navy ships begin six-day charm offensive in Hong Kong
- Public groups will be allowed to board the Haikou, a guided-missile destroyer, and the Huangshan frigate by appointment
Two Chinese navy ships arrived in Hong Kong on Tuesday for a six-day goodwill tour.
The Haikou, a Type 052C guided-missile destroyer, and the Huangshan, a Type 054A, frigate, sailed into Victoria Harbour on a mildly cloudy morning, towed by local boats familiar with the city’s unique marine landscape and navigation.
They made their way to Stonecutters Island, where they will dock at the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) base there.
The military vessels are making their debut visit to Hong Kong. Both are part of a PLA fleet which has carried out numerous deep-sea missions in the Middle East and Africa, including anti-piracy operations.
During their Hong Kong stop, the two ships will open their decks to the public, and will take part in a joint military exercise with the PLA’s local garrison before departing for their home port in Guangdong province on Sunday.
From Tuesday, public and youth groups will be allowed on board for a visit by appointment.