The Chief Executive, Mr Edmund Ho Hau Wah, said today Macao owed much of its success to its being able to maintain harmony in the midst of rapid changes, drawing on the full support of the Central Government and the dedication of the community as a whole. Speaking at the reception to celebrate to the 7th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR, he said Macao has experienced a historic period of progress. And in the course of its rapid development, the people of Macao have encountered unexpected challenges and trials, through which our responsiveness to change has been greatly enhanced. In the past seven years, the most important development for the SAR has been its gradual integration into the regional and international communities. Stepping into a brand new era, the Macao SAR has overcome all these tests and challenges in a relatively short time, he said. “In the new era of rapid social development, the SAR has experienced a series of unprecedented issues, which may evolve and proliferate before they are fully absorbed and understood. Through the growth of the SAR, the entire community has learned how to face the certainty that events follow their own path, regardless. “In other words, though inexperienced and unprepared, we have to deal with new issues pragmatically, avoiding both hubris and timidity, leveraging our strengths while minimising our shortcomings, and making good use of favourable conditions to best secure our future in the best interests of the SAR. “Looking ahead, such valuable experiences remain an inspiring and useful benchmark for the SAR’s future development.” Mr Ho stressed that harmony was a key to the SAR’s success in the midst of rapid changes, and that in a harmonious environment; we should mitigate conflicts and prevent more serious or debilitating conflicts through a timely positive tension, and thereby promote the self-improvement of the MSAR. “From various experience of building a harmonious society, we have realised that, in a modern society, in addition to the importance of systems, the rule of law, technology and talent, good interpersonal relationships are necessary to secure harmony. He said to realise harmony, we must respect the interests of others while we fight for our own: we must be open to other people’s opinions when we proposed our own. “We must not blame others when we are at fault; we must recognise other people’s contributions at times of success; we must also be the first to take up our responsibilities, as we require others to take their own. “A harmonious society requires that people show personal harmony, as well as tolerance, communal effort, and mutual help and encouragement. As society transforms, we must grasp every opportunity, share responsibilities, and strive for reform and breakthroughs. At a time when society is facing challenges, we must share the same vision and join together. With unity as strength, cohesion as support and harmony as foundation, we are determined to safeguard the MSAR’s hard-won achievements. With steadfast values and a pragmatic attitude, we are determined to ensure the harmony and sustainable development of MSAR society.” Mr Ho said. “After seven years’ development, the MSAR has fully demonstrated the superiority and success of “One country, two systems”, “Macao people governing Macao”, and a “High degree of autonomy.” The successful coexistence of the two different political systems, learning from each other in one sovereign country, is an impressive demonstration of harmony and inclusion, which provides the city with vitality and creativity. This power drives the MSAR to overcome challenges and refashion itself. “Today, founded on seven years’ struggle, the MSAR has reached a new beginning. The Government will continue to improve public services to meet society’s needs in the coming years. The Government will studiously take the pulse of society, listen to public opinion, help people overcome their difficulties and resolve conflicts in the evolving community. “We strongly believe that when the Government and the public are of one heart to value and maintain the stability of the community and work together to build a harmonious, impartial, prosperous and strengthening community, the MSAR has a beautiful future that will meet or even exceed our dreams,” he said. About 1,300 guests attended the reception, including the Director of the Central Government Liaison Office in Macao, Mr Bai Zhijian, the Commissioner of the Macao SAR Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC, Mr Wan Yongxiang, commander of the Chinese PLA Garrison Troops in the Macao SAR, Liu Lianhua, the President of the Legislative Assembly, Susana Chou, the President of the Court of Final Appeal, Sam Hou Fai, as well as principal officials and community leaders. Earlier more than 200 guests attended the flag-raising ceremony, which was followed by a variety show. There will be a firework display in the evening to mark the end of events of the much-celebrated day.
Is there anything wrong with this page?