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 acknowledged the challenges faced by Macao amid global transformations and a once-in-a-century pandemic. He praised the fifth-term SAR government for rallying the people of Macao to rise to these challenges, leading to a steady economic recovery and progress in all areas.
“Over the past five years, Macao has made new strides in appropriate economic diversification and has reached new heights in improving people’s well-being,” Xi said. “The political and social foundation rooted in love for the Chinese nation and love for Macao has become more solid and robust, enhancing Macao’s international influence and visibility.”
President Xi attributed these accomplishments to the full and faithful implementation of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, the strong support from the central government and the mainland, and the hard work and unity of the people of Macao under the leadership of the SAR government.
Highlighting Macao’s unique advantages under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework, Xi urged the region to align proactively with national development strategies, such as the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. He encouraged Macao to play a more significant role on the international stage.
“Macao should uphold the underlying values of loving the Chinese nation and loving Macao, embrace greater openness and inclusiveness, and work in solidarity to attract the best talents to build a better Macao,” he stated. “There is a need for stronger resolve and greater courage in reform and innovation to leverage the institutional strengths of ‘One Country, Two Systems’ for new development breakthroughs.”
Outgoing Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng expressed confidence in Macao’s future contributions to China’s development. “We should make greater contributions to building China into a stronger country and achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” he said.
Ho also voiced his 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
