Quotable

"The past 15 years, since Macao's return to the motherland, is its fastest growth period. Most of Macao's people are fully aware that Macao is a special administrative region under China's sovereignty. The SAR's interests can be safeguarded only when the country's interests are safeguarded."

CHUI SAI ON, Macao chief executive, on the eve of the 15th anniversary of Macao's return to China, pledged to focus on implementing the "one country, two systems" policy and the Basic Law, which he said would be the top principle for his governance in the next five years.

"The US report ignores the basic facts and international legal principles and is contrary to its promises not to take a position."

HONG LEI, Foreign Ministry spokesman, condemned on Dec 9 a report by the US State Department about China's claims in the South China Sea. The US State Department report, issued on Dec 5, said China's claims were both unclear and inconsistent. Hong said China's rights were based on historic claims. "We urge the US to abide by its promises, act and speak cautiously and objectively, and fairly view and deal with the issue."

(China Daily Africa Weekly 12/12/2014 page3)