China’s Shandong aircraft carrier’s visit to Hong Kong signals growing military ambitions: Analysts

A STRONGER MILITARY

Many Hong Kong residents had turned out to catch a rare glimpse of the Chinese vessel and preserve the moment with photos.

“I have never seen a real aircraft carrier. I have seen military ships before but not such a big one,” said Hong Kong resident Ho Wong.

“I am very happy that China has (such a vessel). It’s considered a good thing for the world, with a stronger military, the world will be more balanced, there will not be as many conflicts.”

Fellow Hong Kong resident Ng Mui Ying expressed pride, saying: “As Chinese citizens, since (the carrier) has arrived in Hong Kong, we must definitely try all means to come and see it.”

China has steadily raised its defence budget over the past decade, amid President Xi’s push to fully modernise the country’s military by 2035.

In March, it announced another 7.2 per cent boost this year. 

Li said defence modernisation has always been important for China. 

“From China’s point of view, it’s always preferable to achieve peace without fighting. In terms of promoting peace, I think China wants to show that peace can be achieved through military strength,” he said. 

“You would not be in a strong position to negotiate with other countries, to talk about peace if this is not backed up by your military capabilities. You can only have a louder voice in negotiation if other countries can see that if negotiation breaks down, you are able to fight.”

Meanwhile, NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) countries agreed last month to invest 5 per cent of their gross domestic product annually on core defence and defence-related spending by 2035.

Looking ahead, observers highlighted that China may be expected to reevaluate its own defence posture.