Zhang urges Macao to focus on development as 'eternal theme'

Development is the "eternal theme" for Macao and the special administrative region should make the most of opportunities offered by the nation's growth strategies, top legislator Zhang Dejiang stressed.

This would require stability and a sound social and political atmosphere as the city is too small to afford any form of chaos, Zhang said.

During the past three years, China's contribution to the world's economic growth remained at an average 30 percent. The country's 1.38 billion population forms a huge market - attracting other economies to queue up for the country's "fast train" of development, Zhang said.

The central government has reserved "VIP seats" for its two SARs - Macao and Hong Kong - while other countries and territories rush to join, the National People's Congress Standing Committee chairman said.

Zhang, who is also in charge of Hong Kong and Macao affairs, hopes the city can integrate itself into national development plans and continue to seize future opportunities.

He told Macao to maximize its advantages in the strategic Belt and Road Initiative, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and other central government policies.

Macao was seen as a leisure and tourism hub in the Greater Bay Area. It was also a trade and economic platform linking China and Portuguese-speaking countries.

"Development is the eternal theme," Zhang said. "Macao is a small place with a small population, there must not be chaos; you cannot afford to have this," cautioned Zhang.

He hoped the people of Macao would continue to respect the city's long-term interests. "People from all walks of lives should unite in forging ahead," Zhang said.

He advised people to continue to support the chief executive and his government in accordance with the law.

According to official statistics, Macao's GDP last year was 5.9 times that of 1999; while per capita GDP amounted to $69,000 - among the highest in the world.

On the same day, Zhang made a short visit to the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR. He met liaison office staff, as well as representatives from the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Macao SAR, the People's Liberation Army Macao Garrison and mainland enterprises in Macao.

Zhang urged them to keep improving professional skills. They should also maintain their faith in the country, as well as the "One Country, Two Systems" principle.

Contact the writers at luisliu@chinadailyhk.com