President Xi expresses strong belief in Macao's future

MACAO - Chinese President Xi Jinping said here Friday that he believes the people of Macao will make solid efforts and build a brighter future with people in other parts of China.

Xi made the remarks at a welcoming banquet hosted by the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government. He arrived Friday noon for celebrations marking the 15th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland.

"I am convinced that under the leadership of the Chief Executive and government of the Macao SAR, the Macao people from all walks of life will be united as one and make continued efforts to write an even more brilliant chapter in the story of Macao," Xi said.

Xi will administer the inauguration of the fourth-term government of the Macao SAR scheduled on Saturday.

In his speech, Xi praised the Macao people's fine tradition of love for the motherland and Macao, inclusiveness and mutual assistance, and being practical and enterprising.

"This has been the source of strength driving Macao's development," he said.

"We must cherish and carry on these precious traditions and keep in mind our country's overall interests and Macao's long-term interests," he added.

Efforts should be made to maximize the enthusiasm, initiative and creativity of the Macao people to encourage them to take an active part in Macao's future development, he said.

Xi also expressed belief that the Macao people will work side by side with people with other parts of China to make new and greater contribution to the realization of the Chinese dream of the great renewal of the Chinese nation.