HONG KONG -- A fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy led by the aircraft carrier Shandong made its first visit to Hong Kong, a move widely seen as not only a demonstration of military strength but also a step toward deepening ties between Hong Kong and the mainland.

The task force was welcomed with a ceremony held by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government at the Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks as Shandong (Hull 17), guided missile destroyers Yan'an (Hull 106) and Zhanijiang (Hull 165), and guided missile frigate Yuncheng (Hull 571) arrived in Hong Kong.

Amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea, the USS George Washington made a port visit to Manila, coinciding with the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong's arrival in Hong Kong. The US Navy emphasizes its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific,