President Xi Jinping on Friday that the population of Macau recognises that “one country” is the premise and pre-condition for “two systems”, respecting the socialist system adopted in the country and correctly dealing with relations with the central authorities.

Xi, speaking on the occasion of the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the 5th government taking office, said that during this period there had been successful experiences in Macau related to the “one country, two systems” principle.

According to Xi, Macau has always had confidence in the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ and its success shows the vitality and advantages of its application.

The President said it was necessary to ensure the correct direction of implementation of “one country, two systems”, and to be responsible for defending and ensuring the soundness of its social and political basis.

He added it was essential that the new Government and all of MSAR society think big, have a long term vision and are prepared for danger even in times of peace and seek out new innovations whilst remaining on the right path.

The Chinese president said he hoped Macau would keep up with the times, improve its governance and entrepreneurship, based on sustainable and sound economic development.

“The SAR must identify the main focus and relevant key projects for the appropriate diversification of Macau’s economy. Macau needs to carve out its role in national strategies, seize the opportunities of ‘Belt and Road’ cooperation and of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (…) What is particularly important is to ensure good collaboration with Zhuhai in developing Hengqin, as it will create immense space for Macau’s long-term development,” he said.

Xi also called for Macau to continue serving its citizens in order to improve and further consolidate their lives.

At the end of his speech President XI noted that “with the return of Hong Kong and Macau, the handling of affairs in the two SARs is strictlyChina’s internal matter. There is no need for any external force to dictate things to us.”

The Chinese Government and people have a rock-firm determination to uphold national sovereignty, security and development interests. We will never tolerate any external interference in Hong Kong and Macau affairs,” Xi said and was loudly applauded by the over 2,000 guests attending the ceremonies.

Finally, President Xi Jinping said that for the past 30 years, the success of “one country, two systems” – the vision of Deng Xiaoping – it is natural that steady improvements are needed, but “We have all the confidence that the Chinese people, including our fellow compatriots in Hong Kong and Macau, have the wisdom and ability to better practice and develop ‘one country, two systems’ and achieve more success in running the Special Administrative Regions.” (macauhub)