Macao has witnessed social stability and sustained economic expansion and local people working and living in peace and contentment since it returned to the motherland three years ago, a senior Chinese official said here Wednesday.
Visiting Chairman Li Ruihuan of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) made the remarks in a meeting with more than 100 local celebrities.
The "sound situation" was, undoubtedly, brought by the correct principle of "one country, two systems," strong support from the motherland, efficient efforts made by the Special Administrative Region (SAR) government and special and important roles played by local celebrities, he said.
Li expressed his sincere greetings and best wishes to the Macao compatriots.
Macao may meet with some difficulties on the road of progress, he said, voicing his hope that the Macao people will continue to carry forward the glorious tradition of loving both the motherland and Macao, further support the administration of the SAR government and create a brighter future for Macao under the leadership of the SAR government headed by Edmund Ho Hau Wah.
Li was accompanied by Chief Executive Edmund Ho and Bai Zhijian, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR.
(Xinhua News Agency January 9, 2003)
