Macao's new chief executive commits to upholding 'One Country, Two Systems'

The Chief executive of Macao Special Administrative Region has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the "One Country, Two Systems" principle.

Ho Iat Seng (R), the Chief executive of Macao Special Administrative Region, speaks during an exclusive interview with China Media Group (CMG). [Photo: CCTV]

Ho Iat Seng made the remarks during an interview with China Media Group's first national radio service for the Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao Greater Bay Area.

The GDP per Capita in Macao averaged from around 15,000 U.S. dollars in 1999 and 83,000 dollars last year.

Ho Iat Seng said Macao's development is inseparable from mainland's support.

"Macao is now a tourism center, a China-Portugal trade platform and a cultural exchange base for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Macao is a rather small place but enjoys great tourism development. Last year, about 38.5 million people visited Macao. All these are attributed to the support from the central government and compatriots from the Chinese mainland."

Ho said Macao has over 400 years of exchange between Chinese and western cultures. He added Macao will pursue a development featuring diversity.

As for young people in Macao, Ho said they should know more about the mainland.

"If young people want to do business, they should come to the Chinese mainland as the largest market is there. It's also good to regard it as a learning process. Young people should know more about their country and its market."

Ho said people in Macao have a strong sense of patriotism and harmony.

""Before Macao returning to the motherland, it had suffered from social instability caused by economic downturn for some time. People who had suffered from hardship know that the social harmony of today was hard-earned and social order must be kept."

He further said the "One Country, Two Systems" principle should continue to be fully implemented.

"We should first have a good understanding of the concept of 'One Country'. When we talk about 'One Country, Two Systems,' we cannot only focus on the 'Two Systems' and ignore the fact that 'One Country' is the precondition. You should know where your rights come from. The power comes from the constitution."

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland.