Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has sent a congratulatory letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping acclaiming the great contribution that China has made to Macao's socio-economic development.

The Portuguese president said that relations between Portugal and China will continue to serve as a unique model for countries with different political systems and cultures to live in harmony.

He noted that Macao will keep making contributions to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Portugal and China.

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa also praised Macao in a statement for its important role in promoting the development of Portugal-China relations.

Friday marked the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland from Portuguese stewardship. On December 20, 1999, the Chinese government resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Macao and announced the official establishment of the Macao SAR of the People's Republic of China.