South China Morning Post (Hong Kong)
24 June 2017
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- Pride of PLA Navy to Make Port Call in Hong Kong
Pride of PLA Navy to Make Port Call in Hong Kong
The People’s Liberation Army is to make its most visible appearance in Hong Kong in 20 years, marking the handover anniversary with an unprecedented port call by its first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, sources told the South China Morning Post.
It will sail to the city for the first time early next month, following a visit by Xi Jinping – his first trip to the city since he became president in 2013.
Collin Koh, a maritime expert from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, said that the visit would be part of efforts by the PLA’s Hong Kong garrison to win hearts and minds, and raise awareness and support for the military.
“This will be a demonstration of Beijing’s resolve to defend China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty,” Koh said.
IDSS / Print / Online
