President Xi Jinping turned the spotlight on the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin during an inspection tour Thursday, praising its role in deepening cross-border collaboration. The visit comes as Macao marks the 25th anniversary of its return to China, with Xi emphasizing the 'absolutely correct' strategic vision behind the project. 🚀
Warm Exchanges & Business Buzz
Xi engaged with Macao residents running businesses in the zone, dubbed a 'game-changing' experiment for regional integration. Photographs and models at a special exhibition highlighted how Hengqin – a Guangdong island near Macao – has evolved into a testing ground for shared infrastructure, tech innovation, and streamlined policies. 💼
Hengqin-Macao Integration on Display
Since its 2021 launch, the zone has accelerated economic diversification for Macao beyond gaming and tourism. Over 8,000 Macao-linked enterprises now operate in Hengqin, with simplified customs rules and tax incentives fueling growth. Xi noted 'increasingly evident' results in boosting Macao's resilience through cross-strait teamwork. 🌉
Looking Ahead: A Shared Future
'Practice has proven our path,' Xi stated, framing the zone as a blueprint for mainland-region collaboration. The trip underscores Beijing's commitment to Macao's development as the SAR inaugurates its new government. Analysts say the project could reshape southern China's economic map. 🗺️
