The parade held in a barrack of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong garrison on Aug. 1 is just a normal activity marking the founding anniversary of the PLA, said a spokesman for the garrison Thursday.

Colonel Feng Wei said at a news briefing that troops around the country will as before hold activities to celebrate the army's birthday.

"The coming parade will display our national sovereignty, strength of national defense, as well as give more chances for the garrison and Hong Kong citizens to understand each other," said Feng.

The 3,000-member troops will present military review and march-past during the parade. The Military Band of the PLA Forces will later perform for the audience.

Aug. 1 is the Army Day and the PLA is to commemorate its 77th founding anniversary this year.

Citizens and public groups from all walks of life in Hong Kong are welcomed to attend the parade, which is an opportunity for Hong Kong people to know the modernization standard of the PLA and the development of the motherland, said Feng.

About 15,000 tickets will be distributed for the parade.

Feng said the troops to attend the parade have made several rehearsals and "they are ready for the event."