People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Macau Garrison Commander Major General Liao Zhengrong said yesterday that the local PLA garrison functions as the “magic cudgel” to uphold the stability of Macau, pledging that it will continue to uphold the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, defend the nation’s sovereignty and security and protect the national interest.

Wang made the remarks in a speech during a reception to celebrate the 91st anniversary of the PLA, at the garrison barracks in Taipa yesterday.

Wang stressed that it has been 19 years since the PLA has been stationed in Macau, adding that the local garrison has been closely following orders from the central government.

Wang also pointed out that during last year’s Super Typhoon Hato PLA Macau Garrison troops were deployed to assist in Macau’s disaster relief, adding that the assistance has projected a heroic image amongst local residents.

Chief Executive Fernando Chui Sai On pointed out that the Macau Garrison has been closely following the Macau Basic Law and the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Garrisoning the Macau Special Administrative Region, adding that the garrison has provided a powerful backing to local stability and social harmony.

Chui also said that thanks to the support of the central government and the garrison, Macau has the confidence to continue to boost its economy and maintain long-term prosperity

Macau Garrison Commander Liao Zhengrong (second from right), Chief Executive Fernando Chui Sai On (fourth from right), Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Edmund Ho Hau Wah (fourth from left), Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government Director Zheng Xiaosong (third from right), Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ye Dabo (third from left), Legislative Assembly (AL) President Ho Iat Seng (first from right); Court of Final Appeal (TUI) President Sam Hou Fai (first from left) and PLA Macau Garrison Political Commissar Zhou Wugang (second from left), attend a reception to mark the 91st anniversary of the PLA at the barracks of Macau Garrison in Taipa yesterday. Photo: GCS

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