Xi stresses commitment to 'one country, two systems'

President Xi Jinping meets Macao's incoming chief executive Sam Hou-fai in Beijing on Friday. (XIE HUANCHI/XINHUA)

President Xi Jinping reiterated on Friday that the central government is committed to unwaveringly implementing "one country, two systems", "Macao people governing Macao" and a high degree of autonomy in the Macao Special Administrative Region, ensuring that there will be no deviation or distortion.

Xi made the statement in Beijing when meeting with Sam Hou-fai, the incoming chief executive of the Macao SAR.

Sam, the former top judge of Macao and the only candidate for chief executive, was backed in the role by the SAR's 400-member electoral college in a near unanimous vote on Oct 13.

The decision to appoint Sam as Macao's new chief executive was made at a meeting of the State Council, the nation's Cabinet, presided over by Premier Li Qiang, on Oct 25.

Witnessed by Xi on Friday, Li presented the Order of the State Council confirming the official appointment of Sam.

While congratulating him on the appointment, Xi commended Sam for his long-standing service as the president of the Court of Final Appeal, his patriotism, firm stance, lawful performance of duties, and dedication to contributing positively to the prosperity and stability of Macao.

He also praised Sam's pragmatic and people-oriented approach and his willingness to address issues directly since running for chief executive. He noted that Sam's election platform and governance philosophy align with the realities of Macao and the aspirations of its residents for a better life.

Xi emphasized that the principles of "one country, two systems" are in the fundamental interests of the nation and Macao.

Over the past 25 years since Macao's return to the motherland, Xi said that with strong support from the central government as well as the consistent efforts of the Macao SAR government and its residents from across all sectors, the practice of "one country, two systems" with Macao characteristics has made remarkable achievements.

The constitutional order established by the country's Constitution and the Basic Law of the Macao SAR is firmly in place, leading to comprehensive progress in all aspects of Macao's endeavors and a significant increase in international influence, he said.

Highlighting the advantages of "one country, two systems" in promoting opening-up, Xi noted that the nation's modernization drive will provide new historical opportunities for Macao to achieve further development.

He expressed the hope that Sam would lead the new SAR government, unite all sectors of society to take on challenges with a proactive spirit, and continue to advance the practice of "one country, two systems" with Macao characteristics, and contribute to building a strong country and realizing national rejuvenation.

Sam pledged to fully and faithfully implement the principles of "one country, two systems" under the leadership of Xi and the central government, and safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Macao will strive to integrate more effectively into and serve the national development agenda, enhance governance capabilities, accelerate the development of a moderately diversified economy, and improve people's well-being, he said.