An aerial drone photo taken on July 4, 2025 shows visitors on-board the aircraft carrier Shandong anchored in Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong, south China. (Photo by Pu Haiyang/Xinhua)

　　HONG KONG, July 4 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) celebrated the 28th anniversary of the city's return to the motherland with a significant visit from a fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy, led by China's first homegrown aircraft carrier Shandong.

　　Since November 2024, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy has made three visits to Hong Kong, deploying a range of vessels, including aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, and missile destroyers.

　　Experts and academics underscore the multifaceted significance of this naval visit. “Only with the support of national strength can there be security and prosperity at home,“ said Zheng Hong, a researcher at the Naval Research Academy.

　　Recognized as a leading free trade port, Hong Kong has consistently ranked as the world's freest economy for several years; The navy serves as the backbone of China's maritime strength, playing a vital role in safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests, said Zheng, noting that “the connection between the two is fundamentally intertwined.“

　　China's naval formations of two aircraft carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, have just completed their far-sea combat-oriented training. After several days of replenishment at the port, the Shandong made its first visit to Hong Kong, accompanied by other vessels.