CGTN Poll: Macao showcases vitality of 'One Country, Two Systems' to the world

China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) is about to usher in another moment of glory. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the central government's resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Macao, a survey conducted jointly by CGTN and the Centre for Macau Studies, targeting 1,551 respondents from Macao, shows that the successful implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" in Macao is highly recognized by the respondents. They generally believe it to be the best system for resolving similar issues and maintaining long-term prosperity and stability in the region.

In the evaluation of satisfaction with Macao's economic and social development, 93.9 percent of respondents agreed with the performance of the Macao SAR government in recent years. A total of 91.9 percent stated that the political rights and freedoms of the people in Macao are fully protected, and 90.8 percent praised the significant improvement in social welfare levels in Macao.

The satisfaction and happiness of Macao's respondents are a true reflection of the remarkable economic and social progress Macao has made over the past 25 years. Data shows that Macao's GDP has increased by 7.3 times from 1999 to 2023. In 2023, trade between the Chinese mainland and Macao reached $3.84 billion, growing 4.3 times compared to before the handover. As of October this year, direct investment from the mainland into Macao totaled $14.19 billion.

In the survey, 94.3 percent of respondents expressed that the strong support of the mainland has been crucial to Macao's prosperity and development. Additionally, 92.7 percent of respondents deeply feel that Macao's ties with the mainland are increasingly close. With the authorization and support of the Chinese central government, Macao has established stable economic, trade and cultural relations with over 120 countries and regions. The number of international organizations and institutions that Macao participates in has increased to more than 190, and it now enjoys visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges with 147 countries and regions. A total of 92.5 percent of respondents believe that Macao's unique advantage lies in being backed by the motherland and connected to the world.

Macao's prosperity and stability are grounded in the principle of "One Country" and ensured when the unique strengths of "Two Systems" are brought into full play. Macao, after its return, has become a key window for the world to observe the success of "One Country, Two Systems." In the survey, 92.2 percent of respondents believe that the practice of "One Country, Two Systems" in Macao has been successful. The top three reasons behind this viewpoint are: "People of Macao governing Macao" with a high degree of autonomy, which suits Macao's realities; the central government's comprehensive support for Macao; and the patriotism and enterprising spirit of Macao's residents. A remarkable 93.9 percent of respondents expressed confidence in the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" and "the people of Macao governing Macao."

With the country doing well, Macao is set to fare even better. In the survey on the recognition of the concepts and achievements of the Chinese path to modernization, respondents rated achievements in areas such as scientific and technological innovation, cultural development, social security and education with scores above seven out of 10. Additionally, 93 percent of respondents stated that since Macao's integration into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, there has been an increase in visitors, more convenient exchanges and more investment attracted. A total of 93.8 percent of respondents believe that China's modernization offers great opportunities for Macao; 93.3 percent expressed confidence that the central government will maintain Macao's long-term prosperity and stability; and 92.6 percent are optimistic about Macao's future development prospects.