Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

In response to Macao's upcoming celebration of the 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland on December 20, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Wednesday that over the past 25 years, the practice of "One Country, Two Systems" with Macao characteristics has achieved remarkable success. With the strong support of the central government, Macao has actively engaged in foreign exchanges and cooperation, significantly expanding its network of international connections.

Lin said the constitutional order established by the Constitution and the Basic Law of Macao SAR has been firmly upheld, the economy has developed rapidly, people's livelihoods have continuously improved, and society remains harmonious and stable.

The number of international organizations and institutions Macao participates in has increased to more than 190, and it has secured visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 147 countries and regions. Macao has signed nearly 60 agreements with foreign countries and established robust economic, trade, and cultural ties with over 120 countries and regions. The number of its sister cities has grown to 13, Lin said.

Lin further noted that in 2023, Macao's total trade with Belt and Road Initiative partner countries reached nearly 30 billion yuan, setting a historical record. Macao has fully utilized its role as a key link to Portuguese-speaking countries, hosting six Ministerial Conferences and one Extraordinary Ministerial Meeting of the Forum for Economic and Trade Co-operation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Macao). This has facilitated extensive exchange and cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. 

Additionally, Macao has received multiple accolades, including being named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, a Culture City of East Asia, "Best Convention City (Asia)" and "Best BT-MICE City." Its Historic Centre has been inscribed on the World Heritage List, significantly enhancing Macao's international reputation.

Looking ahead, Lin expressed confidence that with the strong support of the central government and the mainland, and the concerted efforts of the Macao Special Administrative Region government and all sectors of society, Macao will continue to write new chapters of success in the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" and further polish its reputation as a shining global metropolis.

Global Times