Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, arrived in Macao SAR on a special plane to mark the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. Dubbed \"a pearl on the palm\" of the motherland, Macao has transformed into one of Asia's wealthiest cities, boasting a GDP of 379.5 billion MOP (about $47.5 billion) in 2023—a sevenfold increase since 1999.
President Xi praised the success of the \"One Country, Two Systems\" policy with Macao characteristics, highlighting its vibrant economy and unique charm. He emphasized that Macao's achievements are not only the pride of its residents but also a testament to the progress of all Chinese people.
Since the return, the connection between Macao SAR and Zhuhai has flourished, with approximately 2.8 billion trips made between the regions. The number of checkpoints has expanded from two in 1999 to seven today, with Hengqin Port emerging as a bustling hub. The Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone on Hengqin island, established in 2021, has attracted nearly 6,500 Macao-invested enterprises, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
President Xi is set to attend the anniversary celebration and the inauguration of the sixth-term government of the Macao SAR. He plans to inspect the 33-square-kilometer SAR and engage in extensive discussions about Macao's development. Xi expressed confidence that Macao will continue to thrive by leveraging the advantages of \"One Country, Two Systems\" and promoting innovation.
Under strong central support and a range of integration policies, Macao has evolved into a modern, international metropolis with significant economic growth and improved livelihoods for its residents. Looking ahead, Xi Jinping envisions an even brighter future for Macao, reaffirming its status as a jewel in China's crown.
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Xi Jinping Celebrates 25 Years of Macao's Return to China
