China flexes military muscle in Hong Kong during Xi’s visit
HONG KONG — President Xi Jinping inspected troops based in Hong Kong on Friday as he asserted China’s authority over the former British colony, where anti-China sentiment has been on the rise since Beijing took control 20 years ago.
Xi rode in an open-top jeep past rows of soldiers lined up on an airstrip on his visit to the People’s Liberation Army garrison. He called out “Salute all the comrades” and “Salute to your dedication” as he passed 3,100 soldiers arranged in 20 formations.
Armoured personnel carriers, combat vehicles, helicopters and other pieces of military hardware were arrayed behind the troops.
It was a rare display of the Chinese military’s might in Hong Kong, where it normally maintains a low-key presence. China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, is expected to make a port call next month.