20th anniversary of Macao's return to motherland China

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China.

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  President Xi leaves for Beijing after attending return anniversary celebrations in Macao

  Photo: XinhuaMACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his trip to Macao and left for Beijing Friday afternoon, after attending celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration of the fifth-term government of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), among other activities.During his stay in Macao, he attended a welcome banquet held by the SAR government and a gala, met with former chief executives of Macao SAR Ho Hau Wah and Chui Sai On, the fifth-term Chief Executive of Macao SAR Ho Iat Seng, principal officials of the SAR government, representatives of disciplined forces and all walks of life, and Chief Executive of Hong Kong SAR Carrie Lam.Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, inspected the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Garrison in Macao, and also had extensive exchanges with Macao residents.At the seeing-off ceremony, Macao children presented bouquets of flowers to Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan. Xi waved goodbye to the crowd.

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  Xi raises hope for Macao to further boost economic, social development

  Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech at a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland, in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2019. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)MACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday expressed hope for the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government to further boost the regions economic and social development.Xi made the remarks while addressing a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.Xi urged the SAR government to keep apace with the times and improve governance of the region.He called for steady efforts to improve the set of institutions for the law-based governance of Macao and expedite the building of a smart city.Information technologies, including big data, can be used to improve the modes of government running and social governance to ensure that the decision making by the government is well-conceived and public services are efficient, Xi said.Xi urged Macao to push ahead in promoting sustainable, healthy development of its economy.Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech at a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland, in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Tao)Macao should step up long-term planning and coordination and steadily carry out plans for building the region into a world tourism and leisure center, a commercial and trade cooperation service platform between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, and a base for exchange and cooperation where Chinese culture is the mainstream and diverse cultures coexist, he said.Macao should focus on the aspects and major projects, which are selected based on the regions conditions and well-conceived procedures, in order to appropriately diversify its economy, Xi said.The SAR should grasp the opportunities brought by the building of the Belt and Road and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Xi s...

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  Xi calls for better performance of Macao-based central gov't officials, business executives

  File photoMACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping here on Friday commended central government officials based in Macao and senior executives of local branches of mainland enterprises and institutions for their dedication to the successful practice of "one country, two systems."When meeting the officials and executives, Xi said the Macao-based central government offices have firmly implemented decisions and plans of the central government and actively supported the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government in its law-based governance over the past 20 years.In the meantime, local branches of mainland enterprises and institutions have participated in the construction of the Macao SAR, pushing forward the SAR to prosper together with Macaos enterprises, said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission."The central authorities fully acknowledge your work," Xi said.He said the 19th CPC Central Committee at its fourth plenary session had made an outline on upholding and improving the institutional system of "one country, two systems," which should serve as a guideline for the work related to Hong Kong and Macao at present and for a period to come, Xi said, urging earnest studying, understanding and thorough implementation of the outline.Xi expressed hope that the central government officials and mainland business executives in Macao would dedicate more to the new phase of the cause of "one country, two systems" in Macao.

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  President Xi urges PLA garrison in Macao to better perform duties

  Photo: Peoples Daily OnlineMACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday urged the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) Garrison in Macao to comprehensively raise its ability to perform duties and contribute more to the successful practice of "one country, two systems" in Macao.Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), made the remarks during his inspection to the PLA Garrison compound in Macao.He reviewed formations of honor guards, defense and battle, anti-riot, counter-terrorism, and emergency rescue.In the past 20 years, the PLA troops in Macao have resolutely implemented the decisions and instructions of the CPC Central Committee and the CMC, Xi said."The troops have done a remarkable job in performing defense-centered tasks, and demonstrated the PLAs image as a powerful and civilized force," he said."The PLA garrison in Macao must comprehensively raise its capabilities in performing duties, firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, maintain prosperity and stability in Macao, and contribute more to the successful practice of one country, two systems" in Macao," he said.Xi made the inspection after attending celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration of the Macao SAR fifth-term government.

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  Xi urges Macao SAR gov't officials to demonstrate sense of responsibility

  File photoMACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping urged principal officials of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), who were sworn in Friday, to demonstrate a sense of mission.Xi made the remarks while meeting with leading officials representing respectively the public administration, the legislature and the judiciary of the Macao SAR government."Now is a critical period for Macao to build on its past successes and further advance its development," Xi said, expressing a five-point hope to the SAR government officials.Xi called on them to heighten their sense of nation, always do big picture thinking from the angle of national development and security, and conscientiously safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.The SAR government officials were urged to observe a fundamental purpose of wholeheartedly serving the people and take a down-to-earth approach to improve peoples wellbeing.Xi expressed hope for the officials to rise to challenges and push ahead with solving deep-seated problems that arise in the course of Macaos economic and social development.He called for steady growth of officials ability to handle complex situations and prevent risks.The officials were also told to promote integrity.

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  Central govn't fully supports Macao chief executive's work: Xi

  Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Macao SAR Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2019. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)MACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that the central government will "fully support" the work of the fifth-term chief executive of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the new SAR government.Xi made the remarks during his meeting with Macao SAR Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, who was just sworn in Friday morning."The central government has high levels of trust in you, while the Macao residents hold high expectations for you," Xi said.The president said he hopes the SAR government, led by Ho Iat Seng, will fully and accurately implement the principle of "one country, two systems," strictly abide by the Constitution and the Basic Law, continuously advance economic development, peoples wellbeing and social harmony.Macao should also actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Xi said.Ho said the new SAR government will take a long-term perspective and crack hard nuts to ensure sustainable and steady economic development.

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  The warmth between President Xi and Macao family

  This year marks the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland. Since Macaos return, Xi Jinping has visited Macao several times and left many touching stories with the local people.In 2014, 15 years after Macaos return, Xi Jinping came to Macao for a visit and inspection.On December 19, after visiting residential clerk Tam Yuk Ngors family, Xi also went to the home of Leung Chi Kwok, a dock worker, and talked about the housing, working conditions, and future plan with Liang and his family, praising the familys joyful life.After learning that Leungs family came from Taishan, Guangdong Province and settled in Macao, Xi said that, with the integration of Pearl River Delta, it will become more and more convenient to shuttle between the two places."Lao Leung, I brought a souvenir for you," Xi said, pointing to a vase and tableware set made in Jingdezhen, Jiang Xi Province. The calling of "Lao Leung" expressed the true feelings of the leaders to the people, and the blood affection of the motherland and Macao."Although I sat with his family only for a while, I seemed to open a window to see the happiness of people in Macao working and living in peace and harmony," Xi said in a speech at a welcome banquet.Xi pointed out that Macao has made great achievements in economic and social development over the past 15 years, which demonstrates the strong vitality of the great concept of "one country, two systems". Macao, now the masters of their own lives, can definitely unite as one, make unremitting efforts and do a good job in building their homeland under the principles of "one country, two systems", "Macao people administering Macao" and a high degree of autonomy.Xi also said that the practice of "one country, two systems", an undertaking with no precedent, will not be plain sailing. Xi emphasized that we should also be keenly aware of the new changes t...

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  Photo exhibition celebrates anniversary of Macao's return

  Macao.[Photo.Heliang/provided.

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  Xi highlights major achievements in practicing 'one country, two systems' in Macao

  MACAO, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping here on Friday highlighted major achievements of the "one country, two systems" practice with Macao characteristics, when addressing a gathering in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.File photo: CGTNOver the past 20 years, the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government and people from all walks of life, in a concerted effort, have achieved the best ever development in Macaos history, with the support of the central government and the mainland and under the leadership of former chief executives Ho Hau Wah and Chui Sai On, according to Xi.Since Macao returned to the motherland in 1999, Xi said, the constitutional order based on the Constitution and the Basic Law of the Macao SAR has been consolidated with the governing system constantly improved.Macaos executive, legislative and judicial bodies have fulfilled their duties strictly in accordance with the law, properly handled the mutual relations, and consciously upheld the authority of the chief executive to ensure the smooth functioning of the executive-led system with the chief executive at the center, said Xi.He said Macao residents widely enjoy law-based rights and freedom, as the Macao SAR has seen an orderly development in its democratic political system.Macaos economy has grown by leaps and bounds since its return to the motherland, with its per capita GDP soaring to the worlds second highest, Xi said.Macao has seen an early achievement in appropriately diversifying the economy, as it has actively participated in the joint building of the Belt and Road, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area construction, Xi said, underlining the Macao residents stronger sense of fulfillment and happiness thanks to constant improvement in peoples livelihood.Stressing Macaos social stability and harmony, Xi said Macao has become one of the safest cities in the world since its...

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  Ho Iat Seng sworn in as Macao's fifth-term chief executive

  Ho Iat Seng was sworn in Friday morning as the fifth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, officiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping.Photo by CGTNHo took his oath at a meeting celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland, where the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) was held.Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the ceremony.Ho took his oath before Xi, who oversaw the swearing-in ceremony.Ho, 62, was elected the fifth-term chief executive of the Macao SAR in August and promised to spare no effort in upholding the principles of "One Country, Two Systems" and "Macao people governing Macao" with "a high degree of autonomy."The principal officials and new public procurator-general of the fifth-term Macao SAR government then also took their oaths before Xi.Members of the Executive Council of the Macao SAR were sworn in by Ho.Ho delivered speech during the ceremony and vowed to safeguard national security and sovereignty together with the fifth SAR government and will keep implementing the "One Country, Two Systems" principle with Macao characteristics.

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  Macao SAR's success proves that 'one country, two systems' works

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  Xi attends ceremony marking 20th anniversary of Macao's return

  Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).

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  President Xi calls for continuous support for Macao SAR chief executive, gov't

  File photo: XinhuaMACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday called for continuous staunch support from across Macao society for the chief executive and government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) in exercising law-based governance. Macaos great achievements during the past 20 years after its return to the motherland are a result of the wisdom and hard work of all Macao residents, Xi said while meeting with representatives of all walks of life in Macao.Xi is in Macao for the celebrations of Macaos 20th anniversary of return to the motherland.

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  Peng Liyuan pays a visit to the Macao Institute for Tourism Studies

  Chinas first lady Peng Liyuan paid a visit to the Macao Institute for Tourism Studies on December 19, accompanied by chief executive of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), Chui Sai Ons wife.Peng listened to administrators who explained the school curriculum and how the students are being trained at the institute. She walked into the tea room and watched the teaching process of making tea. She also observed how the famous Portuguese custard tarts were made. Peng took a funnel and participated in the baking.At the teaching restaurant, Peng watched a video of Macaos food and tea performances. She talked with some teachers and students at school and encouraged those students to study hard to make their contributions to the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao greater bay area.

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  Central government fully supports HKSAR's future work plan: Xi

  MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- The central government fully supports the future work plan of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Thursday.Xi made the remarks while meeting with HKSAR Chief Executive Carrie Lam and some officials of the HKSAR.The central government fully supports the HKSARs future work plan put forward by the chief executive during her duty visit to Beijing earlier this week, Xi said, expressing the hope that all government departments of the HKSAR, under the leadership of the chief executive, will continue to perform their duties while closely coordinating with each other."The central government fully acknowledges your courage and sense of mission during the special period for Hong Kong," Xi told Lam.Lam, who is here to attend celebrations of Macaos 20th anniversary of return to the motherland, pledged to lead the SAR government to continuously stop violence and restore social order as soon as possible.

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  President Xi commends Macao's historic achievements since return to motherland

  Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech at a welcome banquet marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to China, in south Chinas Macao, Dec. 19, 2019. (Photo: Xinhua)(Photo: Xinhua)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday commended the historic achievements made by Macao in economic and social development.Macaos economy registered the fastest growth and livelihoods witnessed the biggest improvement over the past two decades, Xi said in a speech delivered at a welcome banquet marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to China, which falls on Friday."The past 20 years are also a period that saw Macao compatriots share dignity of the great motherland and enjoy the greatest sense of glory," said Xi.Macaos historic achievements shall be attributed to the thorough implementation of "one country, two systems" principle, strong support from the central government and the mainland, the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) governments active performance of duties and concerted and strenuous efforts of people from all walks of life in Macao, Xi said."I have deeply felt the fast changes in Macao since my last visit here five years ago. Macao compatriots, as masters of their own house, are in high spirits. The Macao SARs steps forward are firm and strong," he said.Xi sid the Macao practice of "one country, two systems" has new commendable aspects: "Loving the motherland and loving Macao" becoming a core value of the whole community, the authority of the Constitution and the Basic Law being firmly upheld, the executive-led system functioning smoothly, Macao actively integrating itself into the national development, and social inclusiveness and harmony creating great power to unite the people of Macao.Xi said the Chinese nation has achieved a tremendous transformation: it has stood up, grown rich, and is becoming strong."This is an era of g...

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  President Xi praises work of Macao's principal officials, heads of legislative, judicial organs

  Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with principal officials and heads of legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), in south Chinas Macao, Dec. 19, 2019. (Photo: Xinhua)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) - Chinese President Xi Jinping commended on Thursday the diligent work of principal officials and heads of legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) to steadily push the practice of "one country, two systems" forward.When meeting with them, Xi said the administrative, legislative and judicial organs strictly abided by the Constitution and the Basic Law of the Macao SAR and performed duties well under the leadership of Chief Executive Chui Sai On over the past five years."The central government fully acknowledges the work of all of you," said Xi.He stressed the necessity to unswervingly uphold and resolutely maintain an executive-led system with the chief executive at the core in the SAR, which is stipulated in the Basic Law.Under the system, said Xi, principal officials and heads of legislative and judicial organs can perform their own duties while coordinating well in order to jointly push forward the steady implementation of "one country, two systems."Xi also wished that they would continue to support the chief executive and the SAR government, and contribute wisdom and strength to the cause of "one country, two systems."Xi arrived here on Wednesday to attend celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration of the fifth-term government of the Macao SAR scheduled on Friday.

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  Macao's achievements prove vitality of 'one country, two systems'

  On Thursday, during his visit to the Macao Special Administrative Region, President Xi Jinping observed that even "a table is large enough to stage a big opera". The dazzling trajectory of Macaos development since its sovereignty returned to China 20 years ago has demonstrated the pertinency of that remark.Visitors pose for a selfie at Golden Lotus Square, a tourist attraction and landmark, in Macao on Friday. (Photo: Xinhua)Thanks to its law-based governance, the SAR administration has shaken off Macaos shady image of the past, strengthened its residents sense of personal safety and ensured an orderly society in which different communities and people of different faiths harmoniously live and work together.And under the framework of "one country, two systems", the SAR government and people have made outstanding achievements by integrating the SARs development into the overall development of the country and complementing the mainlands reform and opening-up, greatly enhancing peoples sense of well-being.Macaos gross domestic product has expanded nearly eight-fold over the past 20 years. Last year, its per capital GDP had rocketed to about $84,000 from $15,000 in 1999; the average life expectancy had been extended by three years, from 80.7 years to 83.7 years; and with the introduction of 15-year free education, the college enrollment rate had risen from 32.3 percent to 80.7 percent. And the number of government subsidized houses has increased more than three times over the past decade.These achievements have been underpinned by the SARs active integration into the overall development of the mainland over the past 20 years, which has granted it broader development space and enabled it to diversify its economic structure and reduce its dependency on the gambling industry.And to make its table a little larger, so it can stage what is now a bigger opera than ever, Macao has increased its land area from 22 square ...

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  President Xi attends anniversary celebration gala in Macao

  Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, joins main cast members in singing a patriotic song to deliver wishes for the motherlands prosperity and Macaos brighter future while attending a grand gala in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland, in south Chinas Macao, Dec. 19, 2019. (Photo: Xinhua)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday evening attended a grand gala in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, was present at the variety show in the Macao East Asian Games Dome.Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan, accompanied by Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Chui Sai On and his wife Fok Wai Fun, arrived at the dome at around 8:00 p.m.Beginning with southern Guangdong lion dance, the gala included performance of classical songs expressing love for the motherland and Macao, a multimedia show displaying the glorious achievements of Macao in the past 20 years, as well as traditional operas and Portuguese-style dances depicting Macaos unique charm of a combination of Chinese and Western cultures.At the end of the gala, Xi, accompanied by Chui and incoming Macao SAR Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, stepped onto the stage and shook hands with main cast members. Xi also joined them in singing a patriotic song to deliver wishes for the motherlands prosperity and Macaos brighter future.

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  Macao warmly welcomes President Xi

  Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Macao to attend a gathering to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration of the Macao SAR fifth-term government. He will also inspect the Macao SAR.Ao Ieong Ut Seng, Vice President of The Womens General Association of Macao,said,"I am very glad that President Xi has come to Macao again."Fong Ka Kin, Director, Youth Committee, Macao Federation of Trade Unions，said,"I hope President Xi has a very pleasant visit in Macao."Mok Chi Wai, President of the Macao Youth Federation,said,"We young people in contemporary Macao will work harder for the overall development of our country.""We will join hands to draw up the blueprint for Macaos future development," Xi said.

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  Chinese president speaks highly of Macao's patriotic education, calls for more

  Part of textbooks adopted bythe Premier School Affiliated to Hou Kong Middle School (Photo: CCTV News app)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday spoke highly of the patriotic education in Macao during his visit to a local school and called for more efforts in this regard."Patriotic education lays a solid social and political foundation for Macao to implement the one country, two systems principle and guides its practice to always proceed in the correct direction," Xi said during his visit to the Premier School Affiliated to Hou Kong Middle School.Xi made the remarks in the schools auditorium after watching a Chinese history class themed "one country, two systems and Macao."Noting that Hou Kong Middle School has a long patriotic tradition, Xi said he was touched when he received a letter in May from the schools pupils who showed a strong sense of patriotism.Xi stressed the need to know history in order to consolidate the foundation of patriotism."As Chinese people, we must know the history of our Chinese nation," he said. "The 1.4 billion Chinese are so closely united due to the richness of the Chinese civilization and the Chinese spirit, which are the source of cultural confidence.""One can easily feel a strong sense of national self-esteem and national pride after knowing our uninterrupted history spanning over five millennia," Xi said. "And only by knowing the nations history of humiliation after the Opium War, one can understand the Chinese peoples strong yearning for national rejuvenation."As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, each Chinese takes pride in the countrys splendid achievements, Xi said, adding that the confidence in the countrys development path has been strengthened.Macao has witnessed tremendous changes since it returned to the motherland 20 years ago, ...

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  President Xi visits China-PSCs commercial, trade service platform complex

  (File photo: Xinhua)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday acknowledged the progress made by Macao since its return to the motherland in advancing the building of a service platform for China-Portuguese-speaking Countries (PSCs) commercial and trade cooperation.Xi made the remarks while visiting the China-PSCs Commercial and Trade Service Platform Complex, which is the regular meeting venue of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and PSCs (Macao).He called the building of the service platform an "important measure" of giving full play to Macaos strengths to meet the needs of the country.Xi said he was pleased to see that the complex had been equipped with various facilities as planned and the idea of building the platform had become reality.Xi had cordial exchanges with students from countries along the Belt and Road who are studying in Macao, encouraging them to leverage the valuable experience to learn more and become envoys of friendship between China and their own countries and the world.Xi was accompanied by Macao Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Chui Sai On during the visit.The president is in Macao for the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.

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  President Xi visits gov't services center, school in Macao

  (File photo: CCTV)MACAO, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) - Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday morning visited a government services center and a school in Macao and talked with teachers, students and other local residents.Xi was accompanied by Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Chui Sai On during his tour of the Government Services Center in Areia Preta and the Premier School Affiliated to Hou Kong Middle School.(File photo: CCTV)At the services center where 26 government departments provide one-stop services to local residents, the president observed the working procedures and conversed with some residents. He acknowledged the efficient public services delivered through the use of information technology.Xi told the residents that he had seen the constant improvement of the livelihood of the Macao people and could feel the historic changes since Macaos return to the motherland in 1999.Afterwards, Xi paid a visit to the Premier School Affiliated to Hou Kong Middle School, which was founded in 1932 and has the largest number of students among Macaos basic education institutions.At the school library, Xi was briefed on the overall situation of Macaos education and the schools history, as well as the patriotic education both at the school and in the SAR since 1999.Xi also watched a presentation of the schools innovative scientific works. In the school auditorium, the president observed a Chinese history class themed "one country, two systems and Macao."The president is in Macao for the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.

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  Portuguese PM hails success of 'one country, two systems' in Macao

  Chinas "One Country, Two Systems" principle has brought laudable achievements in economic and social development to Macao over the past 20 years, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said Tuesday.The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government hosts a flag-raising ceremony at the Golden Lotus Square to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, in Macao, China, October 1, 2019. /Photo via Macao SAR government website"We value the One Country, Two Systems principle," Costa said in a written statement sent to the countrys Lusa News Agency on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the return of Macao to China."The principle has allowed Macao and the Macao people to enjoy material and social development, which deserves our appreciation, and has contributed to the maintenance of Macaos specificities," Costa said.Economic development "has allowed Macao to maintain its own lifestyle and identity and a close connection with our country," he said.Costa also praised Macao for its important role in promoting the development of Portugal-China relations."Portugal has a unique geostrategic positioning and belonging to wider cooperation spaces that enhance its partnerships," he said."In this complex network of relationships, Macao will continue to play a major role as a bridge to promote long-term friendship" between Lisbon and Beijing, and as a "platform for economic, commercial and cultural cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries," he said.Macao "is a meeting point between many worlds, not only between the West and the East, Europe and Asia, but also between China and the Portuguese-speaking world," he said.Regarding Macaos return to China, Costa said the event was "constructive and constituted a historic milestone in the consolidation of the friendship and...

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  President Xi meets Macao SAR chief executive

  MACAO, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) - Chinese President Xi Jinping met with outgoing Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On here Wednesday, saying the central government fully acknowledged Chuis diligent work during his 10 years as the chief executive.Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On in Macao, south China, Dec. 18, 2019. (Photo: Xinhua)Xi, during the meeting, said Chui has led the SAR government to fully and faithfully implement the principle of "one country, two systems," and strictly abide by the Constitution and the Basic Law to govern the SAR in a steady and pragmatic manner over the past decade, making a great number of new achievements, and consolidating and promoting prosperity and stability in Macao."The central government fully acknowledges your work," Xi told Chui.Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On in Macao, south China, Dec. 18, 2019. (Photo: Xinhua)The president expressed the hope that Chui will continue to care about the development of the country and Macao, actively support the new chief executive and the SAR government in their law-based governance, and continue to make contributions to the practice of "one country, two systems."Extending a warm welcome, Chui said he was sincerely grateful to Xi and the central government for their care for Macao as well as their trust in and support for himself.With the strong support of the central authorities, the Macao SAR government and people from all walks of life have in recent years made earnest efforts in advancing Macaos prosperity and stability while developing an appropriately diversified economy, Chui said, pledging his utmost support for the new SAR government in exercising law-based governance and his due contributions to Macao and the country.Xi arrived here on Wednesday af...

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  Festive mood prevails in Macao for anniversary day

  MACAO, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) - Strolling around the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), tourists and local residents could easily enjoy a festive atmosphere these days, as Macao is fully prepared to celebrate the 20th anniversary of its return to the motherland.(Photo: CRI)Macaos main buildings were decorated with colorful light installations. Red national flags and green regional flags flew high in the wind along the streets. Signs of Chinese and Portuguese which read "celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland" were also displayed on the lamp posts along main streets.Wong Fung, a resident who runs a candy store near the Ruins of St. Pauls complex, one of Macaos best-known landmarks, told reporters that she was excited at the high-profile return celebrations."Macao people love the motherland, and hope Macao could become better," she said.At the Golden Lotus Square, a tourist surnamed Li asked her husband to take several photos of her before a grand golden lotus sculpture, which was presented by the central government to the Macao SAR in 1999.The couple said they were impressed by Macao during their first trip to the region. "The streets are clean and vehicles give way to pedestrians crossing the street. The residents treat tourists warmly and friendly, and you can feel their happiness," they said."Everywhere you go, you can see festive decorations. As Chinese, we are certainly glad to see how well Macao has developed over the past 20 years," they said.Inside the Macao Tower, the festive slogan of "celebrate the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland" and the national and regional flags were displayed on the large screen.Yang Xuan, a senior high school student, said that his school has organized activities such as watching movies and raising the national flag to let students know more about Macaos achievements since its return.The general post offi...

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  Observer: Macao shows success of ‘one country, two systems’ with its own characteristics

  This Friday marks the 20th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland, which is a historic moment for the renowned metropolis showing the world a successful practice of "one country, two systems” principle with Macao characteristics.The two decades have witnessed Macao evolve from a small town mired in sluggish development and social instability to an extraordinarily vibrant region with political stability, economic prosperity, social harmony, and cultural diversity.High degree of autonomyChina’s central government has constantly implemented the principle of "one country, two systems," "the people of Macao governing Macao," and a high degree of autonomy for the region, and integration of Macaos development into that of the country.The people of Macao have always kept a firm hold of the core requirement that the "one country" is the prerequisite and basis of the "two systems," and have opened new prospects for the successful practice of "one country, two systems" with Macao characteristics.Over the last 20 years, the region is run by Macao compatriots who enjoy unprecedented democratic rights and extensive freedom in accordance with the law.The people of Macao have elected five chief executives and six legislative assemblies. As of the end of 2018, the number of voters in Macao reached 314,000, a sign of local peoples increasing political participation.Within the framework of “one country, two systems,” Macao has participated in the activities of 120 international organizations. It is also an active player in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).Economic miracleSince its return to China, Macao has created a miracle in the economic development and demonstrated its vitality in achieving prosperity under the “one country, two systems” principle.Macao’s GDP had grown by almost eight times from 1999 to 2018, surging to 444.7 billion patacas (about $55 b...

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  Chinese president proud of Macao's achievements, progress

  MACAO, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said the central government and the Chinese people are proud of the achievements and progress of Macao since its return to the motherland 20 years ago.Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers an important speech after landing at Macao International Airport in Macao, south China, Dec. 18, 2019. The president is expected to attend a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Friday. He will also inspect the Macao SAR. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks after landing at Macaos airport on Wednesday afternoon."I am very happy to come to Macao again. In October, we held a grand celebration for the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China. The 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland is another major event," Xi told more than 100 Chinese and overseas reporters, who waited at the airport.Xi extended warm congratulations and best wishes to the Macao compatriots on the occasion."It is worthwhile to sum up the experience and characteristics of Macao in faithfully implementing one country, two systems," he said."We will join hands to draw the blueprint for Macaos future development," Xi said.The president is expected to attend a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Friday. He will also inspect the Macao SAR."During my stay, I expect extensive exchanges with people from all walks of life in Macao over matters of c...

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  Chinese president arrives in Macao for return anniversary celebrations

  MACAO, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Macao on Wednesday afternoon.Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, and his wife Peng Liyuan step out of the hatch and greet the welcoming crowd after landing at Macao International Airport in Macao, south China, Dec. 18, 2019. The president is expected to attend a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Friday. He will also inspect the Macao SAR. (Photos: Xinhua)Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, is expected to attend a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).Xi will also inspect the Macao SAR.

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  Macao:Then and Now

  The photo in the lower left-hand corner shows men and women doing hard labor for a living on the streets of Macao. But now, seniors and children enjoy a peaceful and happy life. (Photo: chinanews.com)Left: Public security is a headache for ordinary people before Macao returns to the motherland. Right: After Macao's return, the rapid stabilization of public security has brought new vitality to the development of the beautiful city.The Ruins of St. Paul's is one of the most iconic scenic spots in Macao. After 400 years of vicissitudes, it has witnessed the ups and downs of Macao.The pedestrian street in front of the Ruins of St. Paul's. Here is the essence of the Historic Center of Macao, a World Heritage site.The streets of downtown Macao are lined with shops in the 1950s, but now there are high-rise buildings everywhere in the city. The once winding path is now wide and straight.The Venetian Macao at Sands Cotai Central is pictured, along with a photograph of the area from the past. Macao, with a land area of just over 30 square kilometres and a population of just over 600,000, received as many as tens of millions of tourists in 2019.Macao has drawn more tourists for its World Cultural Heritage status and gourmet offerings.The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which opened in 2018, and the future expansion of the Macao international airport are set to further strengthen the connection between Macao and surrounding areas. A view of Macao, juxtaposed with a photo of the same area from the past.

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  Exploring top attractions in Macao

  Since its return to the China 20 years ago, Macao has risen to become a world-renowned tourism destination. Following the steps of a young Macao teacher, the People’s Daily will take you to explore the most treasured icons and best things to do there.

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  Macao Light Festival a dazzling event

  People gather at the Ruins of St. Paul's during the Macao Light Festival in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Tuesday. The festival began on Dec 1 and continues throughout the month. (Photos: China Daily)People gather at the Ruins of St. Paul's during the Macao Light Festival in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Tuesday. The festival began on Dec 1 and continues throughout the month. People gather at the Ruins of St. Paul's during the Macao Light Festival in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Tuesday. The festival began on Dec 1 and continues throughout the month. People gather at the Ruins of St. Paul's during the Macao Light Festival in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Tuesday. The festival began on Dec 1 and continues throughout the month. People gather at the Ruins of St. Paul's during the Macao Light Festival in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Tuesday. The festival began on Dec 1 and continues throughout the month.

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  Xi Jinping to address media at Macao airport on Dec. 18

  Chinese President Xi Jinping will arrive in Macao on Wednesday afternoon and address the media at the airport, kicking off histhree-day tourin the special administrative region (SAR).Photo: CGTNHe will attend a gathering marking the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to China and be present at the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao SAR during his stay there.President Xi will also inspect the Macao SAR.

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  Macao to play vital role in Greater Bay Area

  (Photo: VCG)In the two decades since it reunified with the motherland, Macao has undergone drastic changes in terms of fiscal revenue, economic growth, total GDP as well as per capita GDP.Before Macao returned to China, it saw four consecutive years of negative economic growth. But since its reunification with the motherland, the Macao Special Administrative Region has seen its GDP increase from $6.5 billion in 1999 to $54.54 billion in 2018 and its per capita GDP jump from $15,000 to $83,000. Also, Macao has seen its GDP grow at an average annual rate of 13 percent, with its revenue increasing more than 10 times, and unemployment rate declining to 1.8 percent in 2018.In 2018 Macaos per capita GDP was the highest in Asia and the third-highest in the world, while its residents average life expectancy was the second-highest among all economies. More important, Macao is a good example of the success of "one country, two systems".And as one of the four central cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area plan, Macao not only is expected to play an important role as an engine of growth of the area, but also has got an opportunity to strengthen and diversify its economy.According to the Greater Bay Areas plan, the SAR is set to develop into a global tourism and leisure center, as well as an economic and trade cooperation platform between the Chinese mainland and Portuguese-speaking countries. So Macao has to give full play to its advantages, including its role as a bridge connecting the mainland with Portuguese-speaking countries, to facilitate the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.Macao should also establish a special offshore yuan center, especially to explore business opportunities in Portuguese-speaking countries, and develop as a business-cum-leisure tourism center, an international convention and exhibition hub, and a global dialogue platform.Macao is regarded by the World Trade organization as one of...

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  Xi and his firm support for Macao's prosperity, stability

  BEIJING, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping is scheduled to arrive in Macao on Wednesday for the 20th anniversary of Macaos return to the motherland.(Photo: Xinhua)Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, is expected to attend a ceremony marking the anniversary, which falls on Dec. 20, and the inauguration of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR). He will also inspect the region.Over the years, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core has unswervingly implemented the policies of "one country, two systems," "the people of Macao governing Macao," and a high degree of autonomy for the region, and has firmly supported the exercising of law-based governance by the chief executive and government of the Macao SAR as well as integration of Macaos development into that of the country.Guided by this support, Macao has shown the world the success of "one country, two systems" with Macao characteristics.SUPPORT FOR MACAOA city with only around 30 square km of land and a 670,000-strong population, Macao nevertheless enjoys significant attention from the central authorities.In December 2012, not long after being elected general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Xi met with Macao SAR Chief Executive Chui Sai On in Beijing and expressed his full confidence in Macaos development prospects.Xi on various occasions gave policy directions for Macao: integrate into the countrys development, nurture new growth drivers, promote appropriately diversified and sustainable economic development, prioritize economic development and livelihood improvement.Meeting Chui who was on a duty visit to Beijing in December 2015, Xi said the central authorities attach great importance to Macaos prosperity and stability.Support was given to Macao in building the region into a world center of tou...