China’s Aircraft Carrier Shandong Visits Hong Kong

The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong began a five-day visit to Hong Kong on Thursday, arriving with two guided missile destroyers and missile frigates in tow.

The People’s Liberation Army Navy expressed satisfaction over the warm reception the carrier group received from spectators at the port.

One visitor shared, “I’m here to witness China’s military strength, the might of the PLA Navy. Though I couldn’t get onboard, I woke up early just to catch a glimpse.” This sentiment was reported by Radio TV Hong Kong (RTHK), a local public broadcasting service.

Another person mentioned the struggle to secure tickets, stating, “I finally managed to book slots for the Shandong and the other vessels after trying repeatedly. They were in high demand.”

“It’s my first time seeing a Chinese aircraft carrier,” said someone visiting from Yunnan, a province without access to the ocean. “I came here because it’s extraordinary.”

Shandong is China’s second domestically produced aircraft carrier; the first, the Liaoning, is an older Russian vessel acquired in 1998. The third carrier is currently in testing phases in Fujian Province and may enter service later this year.

According to RTHK, all 10,000 tickets for the carrier group tours were sold out by Monday, with only 2,000 available specifically for Shandong.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, described the visit as “exciting.” He noted that it provides SAR residents an opportunity to appreciate the advancements in modern China and the military’s progress.

Lee elaborated, “This visit allows us to observe the Navy’s valor and professionalism, while also fostering national pride among our citizens.”

On Thursday, the state-run Global Times emphasized the significance of demonstrating military power in Hong Kong, especially following the pro-democracy protests in 2019. The publication noted that this year marks several anniversaries: the 28th year since Hong Kong’s return, the establishment of the PLA’s presence, and the fifth anniversary of the national security law.

The controversial national security law has faced global backlash, with free countries and human rights groups condemning measures that stifle criticism of the Chinese Communist Party and suppress political freedoms in Hong Kong.