Praise for Macau's economic and social strides

National legislature chief Wu Bangguo praised the economic and social achievements of Macau during his first official visit to the city yesterday.

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, will today officiate at a ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of the promulgation of the Basic Law in Macau.

He told a reception last night that Macau has, since the 1999 handover, "made huge development accomplishments, the economy has sustainable growth, people's livelihoods have significant improvements and society is accommodating and harmonious".

These achievements, he said, were thanks to the Basic Law and the principle of "one country, two systems".

"I believe that the Macau Special Administration Region chief executive and the government will continue to lead different sectors of the community to govern and construct Macau well, keep making new accomplishments and create new magnificence," Wu said.

Earlier in the day, Wu met Macau Chief Executive Fernando Chui Sai-on. During their discussion, Wu urged Macau to put the emphasis on long-term development. He said Beijing backed the administration and other sectors to strive hard, and stay united.

He said the return of Macau to Chinese rule for 13 years had proved that the principle of "one country, two systems" had "strong vitality".