On the eve of the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to China, Chinese President Xi Jinping commended the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) for its remarkable achievements over the past five “extraordinary” years.
Speaking at a welcome dinner hosted by the SAR government on Thursday, President Xi highlighted how the fifth-term SAR government has united the people of Macao to overcome unprecedented challenges. “Against the backdrop of global transformations unseen in a century and the once-in-a-century pandemic, Macao has risen to the challenge, ensured steady economic recovery, and achieved progress in all undertakings,” he remarked.
President Xi acknowledged Macao’s advancements in economic diversification and improvements in the well-being of its residents. He noted that the region’s political and social foundation, rooted in love for the Chinese nation and love for Macao, has grown stronger, enhancing its international influence and visibility.
The President attributed these successes to the faithful implementation of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, the support of the central government and the mainland, and the collective efforts of people from all sectors in Macao under the leadership of the SAR government.
Looking ahead, President Xi urged Macao to align proactively with national development strategies, such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area initiative, and to play a more significant role on the international stage. “Macao should uphold the underlying values of love for the Chinese nation and love for Macao while embracing greater openness, inclusiveness, and solidarity,” he said. “By attracting the best minds, we can jointly build a better Macao.”
He emphasized the need for the region to demonstrate stronger resolve and courage in reform and innovation, leveraging the institutional strengths of “One Country, Two Systems” to explore new avenues for development.
Outgoing Chief Executive of the SAR, Ho Iat Seng, expressed his confidence in Macao’s future contributions to China’s development and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. He voiced his firm belief that the incoming sixth-term Chief Executive, Sam Hou Fai, will lead the new government and all sectors of Macao in writing a new chapter in the successful 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
