Chinese motorcycle escort provides welcome for foreign leaders

After the establishment of the PLA Honor Guard, China implemented motorcycle escorts in June 1954 for visiting foreign leaders. Then-Prime Minister of India and Minister of External Affairs Jawaharlal Nehru was the first national leader to be guarded by the escorts during his visit on Oct. 19, 1954.

As an arm of the Chinese Armed Police Force, the motorcycle escort draws top riders from across China. In addition to selection standards such as political discipline, height, appearance and fitness, close to a dozen other strict tests are applied to applicants, including a physical, riding skills and psychological test.

Apart from advanced riding skills, members of the escort are also trained in combat and shooting, and are guided to cultivate lightning-fast response times. With intense competition and frequent eliminations, it takes three to four years on average to become a qualified escort guard.

Along with gun salutes and honor guards, motorcycle escorts are also considered the highest protocol for international diplomatic events. Establishing a bridge of friendship, the escorts convey a hope for peace to visiting leaders through their service.