PLA warships’ Hong Kong port call highlights nation’s support
Regular visits from Chinese naval vessels also signal the city’s responsibility to protect sovereignty and fortify a sense of national identity
Spectators lined the harbourfront to welcome the two vessels. Over the weekend thousands of residents, including many children, flocked to the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks where the ships docked. Many had guided tours of the Nanning. Select students were invited to tour the vessels earlier in the week. The public tour was enlivened by an officer’s account of the emergency evacuation by the Nanning and a supply ship of nearly 1,000 Chinese nationals and hundreds of foreigners during the Sundanese civil war in 2023 – a humanitarian expression of preparedness.
A ceremonial welcome was symbolic of the occasion, attended by officials, district councillors and secondary school students. A welcoming speech by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu reflected on what set the port call apart. He said that on the back of visits by warships in July and October last year, it showed how much the nation valued the city.
“With another vessel visiting within a year, this shows how the nation highly values, cares for and supports Hong Kong,” he said, adding that the visit would demonstrate the country’s defence prowess and foster patriotism among youngsters.
PLA navy ships have visited from time to time since the turn of the century, and more regularly in recent years since Covid-19. According to the Basic Law, under “one country, two systems”, the military expenses of the Hong Kong PLA garrison are borne by the central government, without a contribution by local taxpayers. But that does not mean Hongkongers need not be better aware of the importance of a strong military force to safeguard national interests.
The warships’ visit for the anniversary of the handover is a reminder that as part of China the city shares responsibility for protection of sovereignty and for fortifying a sense of national identity. The naval visit showcases this mission, and reassures Hongkongers that a modernised PLA is strong enough to protect the city and Chinese citizens and their interests if attacked or threatened.