China's first domestically built aircraft carrier, the Shandong, sailed into Hong Kong waters on Thursday in its first visit to the Asian financial hub, accompanied by three People's Liberation Army vessels including missile destroyers.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong has sailed into harbor on a port call as part of a drive to drum up patriotism and pride in China's military advancements.

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,