Will he go or not? Hong Kong awaits word on Xi Jinping visit

HONG KONG (AP) — Will he go or not? Chinese President Xi Jinping is keeping Hong Kong guessing about his possible appearance at the 25th anniversary of the former British colony’s return to China. The government has yet to say whether he will attend in person the events, which include the inauguration of the city’s new chief executive. The commemorations are hugely symbolic for Xi, who wants to be seen as propelling a “national rejuvenation” as he prepares for an expected third five-year term as head of the ruling Communist Party. Part of that is erasing the legacy of colonialism. Xi hasn’t left mainland China since the start of the coronavirus pandemic 2 1/2 years ago.