The Liaoning aircraft carrier will open its doors to the public in Hong Kong for the first time.

China's first aircraft carrier will welcome the public on a visit when it arrives in Hong Kong to mark the 20th anniversary of Britain's handover to Beijing.

The aircraft carrier Liaoning. Photo: Xinhua

The Liaoning fleet will showcase the "military strength" and achievements of the Chinese navy.XinhuaAccording to Yang Liang, a naval spokesman, this was said today.

The ship is expected to arrive in Hong Kong on July 7, SCMP reported, citing an internal source within the Chinese People's Liberation Army.Li Jie, a maritime expert in Beijing, said this would be the first time the public would have the opportunity to board the ship. "This is certainly a great honor that Beijing is bestowing upon the people of Hong Kong. In mainland China, the public has not yet had the chance to see this aircraft carrier," Li said.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group during a military exercise.

During yesterday's inauguration of Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that Beijing would not tolerate any challenge to its control over the special administrative region. This was his strongest speech yet on the issue, amid concerns about what some perceive as increasing Beijing's interference.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier sailed in waters near Taiwan earlier this year.

According to VNE