Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday began a three-day visit to Macao to mark the 25th anniversary of the casino city’s return to Chinese rule #Macao #ProsperousChina
Xi Jinping Arrives in Macao to Mark 25th Anniversary of the City’s Return to China
Macao, December 19 — Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Macao today to attend celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the city’s return to China from Portuguese administration.
Upon his arrival, President Xi emphasized the importance of the “one country, two systems” framework, which has guided Macao’s governance since its return in 1999. “One country, two systems is the biggest strength of Hong Kong and Macao, and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area presents new and significant opportunities,” Xi stated, highlighting the region’s strategic role in China’s national development.
The visit underscores Beijing’s commitment to Macao’s continued prosperity and integration within the Greater Bay Area, a major economic initiative aimed at fostering collaboration among Guangdong province, Hong Kong, and Macao.
A Milestone Moment
Macao has flourished under the “one country, two systems” principle, maintaining its own legal and economic systems while benefiting from close ties with the mainland. As the city celebrates this milestone, discussions on its future development and contributions to national goals are expected to take center stage.
Xi’s visit reflects the central government’s confidence in Macao’s role as a model of stability and integration within the framework of “one country, two systems.”
Background
Macao, a former Portuguese colony, was handed back to China on December 20, 1999, becoming a Special Administrative Region (SAR) with a high degree of autonomy under the “one country, two systems” policy. Over the past 25 years, the city has grown into a major tourism and entertainment hub while preserving its unique cultural heritage.
The celebrations serve as a reminder of the success of Macao’s integration into the mainland while honoring its distinct identity and historical legacy.