Patriotism is the most important reason for Macao's success in its practice of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Macao on Friday. He called for efforts to appropriately diversify Macao's economy and further improve its people's wellbeing.

Xi made the remarks at a celebration of the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China and inauguration of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).

Macao compatriots have a tradition of patriotism, as well as a strong sense of national identity, belonging and national pride, firmly consolidating the social and political foundation for "One Country, Two Systems," Xi said as he underscored Macao's "unique role" in the practice of "One Country, Two Systems."

He hailed the "firm confidence" in "One Country, Two Systems" among Macao compatriots.

The SAR has ensured the central authorities exercise overall jurisdiction while accurately implementing the high degree of autonomy, he added.

The Chinese president also officiated the swearing-in of Ho Iat Seng as the fifth-term chief executive of the Macao SAR during the event.