MACAO, Dec. 9 -- China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Tuesday celebrated the 15th anniversary of the establishment of its Macao Garrison on Taipa Island of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).

"Since stationed in the SAR 15 years ago, the PLA Macao Garrison has respected and supported the Macao SAR government, loved Macao people and therefore won widespread acclaim," Deputy Chief of the PLA General Political Department Wu Changde read a congratulation letter from the four departments of the PLA.

Qi Jianguo, deputy chief of General Staff of the PLA, extended greetings to the officers and soldiers of the PLA Macao Garrison and expressed congratulation on the convening of celebration meeting on behalf of the four departments.

Qi said he hopes that the PLA Macao Garrison can continue to strengthen combat readiness training, run the armed forces in accordance with the law and enforce strict discipline in order to provide strong security guarantee for Macao's long-term prosperity and stability.

Wang Wen, commander of the PLA Macao Garrison, summarized the garrison's development over the past 15 years at the meeting and on behalf of all officers and soldiers, he vowed to make greater contribution to Macao's long-term prosperity and stability.

Chief Executive of Macao SAR Chui Sai On said in his speech that since Macao's return to the motherland in 1999, the PLA Macao Garrison has successfully accomplished all their sacred missions and fully demonstrated national sovereignty and its defence capabilities.

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