Chinese state media trumpeted President Xi Jinping’s "deep affection” for Hong Kong as speculation builds that he’ll travel to the city for the handover anniversary celebrations on July 1.
Communist Party mouthpiece People’s Daily published a 2,000-word article Monday entitled "Hong Kong’s Development is Always Close To My Heart,” highlighting Xi’s speeches throughout his decade in power on the city’s progress. The article was republished Tuesday on the front page of Beijing-controlled local newspaper Ta Kung Pao.
Hong Kong officials are preparing to celebrate 25 years of Chinese rule in the former British colony, at an event an unnamed state leader is expected to attend. The South China Morning Post reported Tuesday that the current arrangement is for Xi to visit the city, according to an unnamed source. Separately, local media outlet Ming Pao reported Chinese state leaders could arrive by high speed rail, also citing unidentified sources.