Hong Kong garrison holds reception marking 99th anniversary of PLA’s founding

The Hong Kong garrison of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) celebrated the 99th anniversary of the military’s founding on Saturday with a reception at the barracks on Stonecutters Island, with a top officer pledging to expand its role in promoting patriotic and defence education across the city.

Speaking at the reception at the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks, garrison political commissar Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin said troops would resolutely obey the command of the Communist Party of China, while bolstering its defence capacity to safeguard Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity.

“Particularly in patriotic and defence education, [the garrison] will continue to leverage its unique advantages and endeavour to make more contributions,” Lai said.

The commissar said the garrison resolutely acted in accordance with the “one country, two systems” governing principle and carried out its duties in strict accordance with the Basic Law, the city’s mini-constitution, and the laws of the People’s Republic of China on the garrison’s role.

“[The garrison] has steadfastly supported the Hong Kong government to exercise governance in accordance with the law, defending Hong Kong’s safety with absolute loyalty [and] safeguarding the special administrative region’s journey ahead with staunch responsibility,” Lai said.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu offered his congratulations and extended a salute to the PLA for its service in safeguarding national sovereignty.

“Since Hong Kong returned to the motherland, the garrison has always provided a strong backing for Hong Kong’s safety and social stability, unwaveringly supporting the government’s governance in accordance with the law,” Lee said.