Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrives in Hong Kong for handover anniversary

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has arrived in Hong Kong for the second day of events marking the city’s 25th handover anniversary and the swearing in of its new Beijing-appointed leader, former security chief and police officer John Lee.

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Xi’s motorcade was seen on Friday by a CNN team on the ground after having crossed the city’s border with mainland China, indicating he did not stay the night in Hong Kong.

The Chinese leader is expected to attend the swearing in of the new Chief Executive and make a speech during the inauguration ceremony on Friday.

Tight security measures for Xi’s visit include a heavy police presence, roadblocks and a ban on drones. He is also separated from the public by a “closed loop” system — designed to protect him against Covid-19.

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This visit to Hong Kong marks Xi’s first trip outside mainland China since the start of the pandemic.