040430en01006

	news.gov.hk
	From Hong Kong's Information Services Department

April 30, 2004

Visits

PLA Navy fleet arrives in HK

A fleet of People's Liberation Army Navy vessels have arrived in Hong Kong for a six-day stay.

The task group comprises two guided missile destroyers (Shenzhen and Harbin), four guided missile frigates (Huaibei, Tongling, Xiangfan and Huaihua), and two submarines (314 and 324).

Shenzhen will be open to the public ticket holders on May 1 and 3. The visit is part of the Navy's 55th Anniversary celebrations.

Port of call: The People's Liberation Army Navy's Task Group arrives; the Military Band performs at the welcoming ceremony; and, groups of children cheer on the sailors at Ngong Shuen Chau Naval Base.

Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa attended a welcoming ceremony this morning at Ngong Shuen Chau Naval Base. Also attending were Central People's Government HK Liaison Office Director Gao Siren; Ministry of Foreign Affairs Office (HK) Commissioner Yang Wenchang; Deputy Commander of Guangzhou Military Command Lieutenant-General Ou Jingu; HK Garrison Commander Major-General Wang Jitang; and, Garrison Political Commissar Major-General Liu Liangkai.

Task Group Commander Vice-Admiral Yao Xingyuan accompanied Mr Tung to inspect the Shenzhen's officers and sailors, and briefed him on the task group. This was followed by a tour of Submarine 324.

Officers and sailors will spend several days shopping and sightseeing at Hong Kong's famous attractions.

The PLA Military Band will also stage two public performances with the HK Police Band. The hour-long shows are scheduled for 10am on May 1 at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and at 3.30pm on May 2 at the Cultural Centre Piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui.

The fleet departs May 5.