(MacaoSAR 25) CHINA-XI JINPING-MACAO SAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION-NEW GOV’T INAUGURATION (CN)

(241220) — MACAO, Dec. 20, 2024 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers a speech at a meeting celebrating the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland and the inaugural ceremony of the sixth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), at the Macao East Asian Games Dome in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

On December 20, 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech in Macao to commemorate the 25th anniversary of its return to China and to inaugurate the sixth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR). During his address, Xi emphasized the importance of economic diversification for Macao, urging the region to reduce its reliance on the gambling industry and to develop new sectors with international competitiveness.

Xi highlighted the need for Macao to enhance its industrial development planning, strengthen policy support, and boost investment in emerging industries. He also encouraged the SAR to proactively participate in the Greater Bay Area initiative, which aims to integrate Macao, Hong Kong, and nine other cities in Guangdong province into a cohesive economic powerhouse.

The President underscored the significance of national sovereignty, security, and development interests, calling for the safeguarding of Macao’s autonomy under the “one country, two systems” framework. He also stressed the importance of creating better opportunities for young people in Macao, fostering an environment conducive to their growth and talent development.

(241220) — MACAO, Dec. 20, 2024 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, administers the oath of office to principal officials of the sixth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), who are led by Sam Hou Fai, the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao SAR, at the Macao East Asian Games Dome in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2024. Xi on Friday delivered a speech at a meeting celebrating the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland and the inaugural ceremony of the sixth-term government of the Macao SAR. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Xi’s visit to Macao, which began on December 18, 2024, included various activities such as attending a gala dinner, visiting a university, and inspecting the special zone on Hengqin Island. His presence marked his third trip to Macao as president and underscored Beijing’s commitment to the region’s development and integration with mainland China.

(241220) — MACAO, Dec. 20, 2024 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with new officials of the executive, legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) in Macao, south China, Dec. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

The Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) is Ho Iat Seng. He has been serving in this role since December 20, 2019, and was sworn in for a second term on December 20, 2024, during the event attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping.