A photo exhibition which showcases the achievements of the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR) in the 15 years since its return to the motherland, opened today at the Beijing Exhibition Center. The State Councillor, Mr Yang Jiechi, and Macao Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, gave speeches at the opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Thriving Together – the Introduction to the Achievements Exhibition for the 15th Anniversary of the Macao Special Administrative Region". Officiating guests included the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Mr Zhang Dejiang; the Vice President of People's Republic of China, Mr Li Yuanchao; Vice Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Ho Hau Wah; the Director of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Wang Guangya; and the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR, Mr Li Gang. In his address, Mr Yang Jiechi said that with the great support of the Central Government and the solidarity of the Macao Government and the people of Macao, the SAR had made splendid achievements since its return to the motherland, making the "One country, two systems" concept widely recognised in the world. On behalf of the Central Government, Mr Yang congratulated the successful holding of the exhibition, saying that the multi-dimension and different-formatted exhibits enable visitors to experience the extraordinary developments and progress of the SAR in a more direct and comprehensive approach. The principle of "One country, two systems" was the best to ensure Macao's long-term stability, upholding the principle would not only fulfill the fundamental interests of the country and Macao, but also the common values of the people across the nation and Macao residents. The Central Government would steadfastly implement the principles of "One country, two systems", "Macao people governing Macao" and a high degree of autonomy; strictly abide by the Constitution of the People's Republic of China and the Basic Law of Macao, and greatly support the legal ruling of the SAR Government and the Chief Executive, said Mr Yang. Also speaking at the opening, Macao's Chief Executive said the exhibition was a precious opportunity to share the developments of the SAR with the people in the mainland; it was also a platform to express appreciation to the Central Government and the people across the country. Mr Chui said he sincerely expected the people in the mainland to learn about Macao in all domains through the exhibition and could greatly support the future development of Macao. As Chief Executive of the fourth-term Government who would take his oath on 20 December, Mr Chui said he and his government team would enhance policy visions on prospects and crises, seize the opportunities brought by the country and unify the people in Macao to improve their livelihood, expedite social development and sustain long-term prosperity. He said the achievements of Macao were contributed by the growing power of the country, the implementation of the principle of "One country, two systems", the strong support of the Central Government and the people in the mainland as well as solidarity of the Macao residents. After the opening, the guests accompanied by the Chief Executive toured the exhibition. Also attending the ceremony were officials of the Central Government, foreign affairs ministers, representatives of the Beijing municipal government, delegates of the Macao Government, dignitaries from the community and 300 guests. The exhibition is open to the public from 8 to 28 December. Featured with a rich variety and diversified pictures, coupled with text descriptions and graphs, the exhibition is divided into six sections, namely Preface, Messages from the Central People's Government, Zone I – Facilitation of economic diversification by establishing a "Centre" and a "Platform"; Zone II – Long-term mechanisms for pursuing social wellbeing; Zone III – The family bond between Macao and the motherland and the Conclusion. In the 2500-square-metre exhibition hall, more than 280 photos displayed on the interactive monitors enable the visitors to learn the achievements of Macao since its return to the motherland in first hand, and to experience the unique cultures of Macao.
