US carrier docks in HK amid row

A US aircraft carrier sailed into Hong Kong yesterday amid heightened tension between Washington and Beijing over arms sales to Taiwan and President Barack Obama's plan to meet the Dalai Lama.

The port call by the USS Nimitz, one of the world's largest warships, came as a surprise to many military observers only weeks after China said it would suspend military and security contacts with the US over Washington's $6.4-billion arms package to the island.

"Hong Kong is a vibrant city and a favorite port of call for our sailors. We look forward to an enjoyable stay here," John Miller, commander of the carrier, said in a statement.