A very big bridge — state media today
“Xi announces opening of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge” is the celebratory Xinhua story run by all central state media today: in English, in Chinese. The Global Times put its own twist on the piece: Mega bridge to drive forward reform and opening-up.
- Xi gave an uncharacteristically short speech: All he said was, “I declare that the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is officially open.” You can see Xi’s declaration, waffle from other officials, and some infrastructure porn in this YouTube video.
- Xinhua’s English website today also prominently features a commentary piece titled Accusation of China meddling in U.S. internal affairs absurd.
- “What signal does the U.S. warship operation in the Taiwan Strait send?” is the headline of an opinion piece prominently featured on the Chinese website of the Global Times. Excerpt:
In general, the US pressure on China has gradually widened, and China must adapt to this situation and enhance its ability to compete with the United States. China can neither retreat nor engage in “attacking and defending.” What we need most is strength.
- “Body of Saudi journalist Khashoggi found? Turkish president denies.” is another prominent headline on the Chinese Global Times. It’s a brief report, short on details, on Erdogan’s speech about Khashoggi’s murder.
As for that big bridge, here is some international coverage:
“The $20bn Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau sea bridge, the world’s longest, has been officially opened. Critics say the 55km construction, connecting Hong Kong and Macau to the Chinese mainland, is an attempt to integrate Hong Kong into China as fears grow that the city’s cherished freedoms are being eroded.”
