Hu pledges full support to Macao

By Zhang Jin and Dong Wei (chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-12-19 21:35

MACAO: The central government will continue to support Macao's growth, President Hu Jintao said on Saturday.

"The central government will apply full forces to support Macaoto to develop its economy, improve people's livelihood and advance democracy as well as enhance the harmony of the society," he said.

The president also urged the special administrative region to strengthen cooperation with the mainland and further open up internationally.

In his speech at a welcoming banquet hosted by the Macao SAR government, Hu spoke highly of the outgoing chief executive of Macao, Edmund Ho Hau-wah. Chui Sai-on will succeed the 54-year-old Ho to become the third chief executive on Sunday. Ho served two terms, each of five years.

But the president asked Macao to remain cool-headed amid challenges brought by both domestic and external changes.

"The (Macao SAR) government should have a good knowledge of pronounced problems during the economic and social development, be aware of risks and advance with the times," he said.

Hu arrived in Macao on Saturday to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the city's return to the motherland. He will attend the inauguration ceremony of Macao's third-term government on Sunday.