On Saturday, August 1st, 2026, the Hong Kong garrison of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) commemorated the 99th anniversary of the PLA’s founding with a reception at the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks on Stonecutters Island. Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin, the garrison political commissar, emphasized the troops' resolute obedience to the Communist Party of China and their commitment to strengthening defence capabilities to safeguard Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity.

Lai highlighted the garrison’s intention to expand its contributions in patriotic and defence education across Hong Kong, stating, “Particularly in patriotic and defence education, [the garrison] will continue to leverage its unique advantages and endeavour to make more contributions.”

He also affirmed that the garrison operates strictly under the “one country, two systems” principle, in accordance with Hong Kong’s Basic Law and relevant laws of the People’s Republic of China. Lai added, “[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.”

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu extended his congratulations and saluted the PLA for its role in safeguarding national sovereignty. He remarked, “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.”