Macao marks 18th anniversary of return to China

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Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Chui Sai On said on Wednesday that the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has pointed out the direction for the future development of Macao SAR, created conditions for Macao to maintain its prosperity and stability and Macao will continue to promote the successful practice of "One Country, Two Systems."

Chui made the remarks at a reception held by the Macao SAR government at the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center following a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 18th anniversary of its return to China.

Macao SAR government holds a reception at the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center to celebrate the 18th anniversary of Macao's return to China. /CGTN Photo

"In the 18 years since Macao returned to the motherland, under the principles of 'One Country, Two Systems,' 'Macao people governing Macao' and a high degree of autonomy, the Macao SAR government strictly follows the Constitution and the Basic Law, carries out scientific administration, makes pragmatic progress, and actively promotes the diversified development of the economy," Chui said.

Earlier on Wednesday morning, Macao held a grand flag-raising ceremony at Golden Lotus Square to mark the anniversary.

The PLA force stationed in Macao holds a flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 18th anniversary of Macao's return to China. /CGTN Photo

The flag-raising ceremony started at 8 a.m., with Macao's disciplined forces and local residents participating in the event. Police honor guards held the Chinese national flag and Macao SAR flag before hoisting the two amid the play of the national anthem.

The Chinese government resumed sovereignty over Macao in 1999 as a special administrative region after over 400 years of Portuguese colonial rule.

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