On the eve of the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to China, Chinese President Xi Jinping praised the region’s achievements over the past five “extraordinary” years. Addressing a welcome dinner hosted by the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government on Thursday, Xi commended Macao’s resilience and progress amid global challenges.
“Against the background of accelerating global transformation not seen in a century and the once-in-a-century pandemic, the fifth-term SAR government has rallied and led the people of all sectors in Macao to rise to the challenge,” Xi said. He highlighted the region’s steady economic recovery and advancements in all undertakings.
Xi noted that over the past five years, Macao has made significant strides in appropriate economic diversification and improvements in people’s well-being. “Macao’s political and social foundation, rooted in love for the Chinese nation and love for Macao, is more solid and stronger, and its international influence and visibility have risen significantly,” he added.
The President attributed these achievements to the full and faithful implementation of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, the vigorous support of the central government and the Chinese mainland, and the hard work of the people of Macao united under the leadership of the SAR government.
Aligning with National Development Strategies
Looking ahead, Xi encouraged Macao to proactively align itself with national development strategies, such as participating in the building of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. He urged the region to seek a bigger role on the international stage and to embrace greater openness, inclusiveness, and solidarity.
“Macao needs to demonstrate stronger resolve and greater courage in reform and innovation,” Xi said. He emphasized leveraging the institutional strengths of “One Country, Two Systems” to break new ground in the region’s development.
A New Chapter for Macao
Ho Iat Seng, the outgoing Chief Executive of the Macao SAR, expressed confidence in the region’s future. In his speech, Ho stated that Macao should make greater contributions to building China into a stronger country and achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Ho also conveyed his firm belief that the incoming sixth-term Chief Executive, Sam Hou Fai, will lead the new government and all sectors of Macao to write a new chapter in the practice of “One Country, Two Systems” with Macao characteristics.
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Xi commends Macao's achievements in past 5 'extraordinary' years
cgtn.com
