President Hu Jintao, accompanied by the Chief Executive Mr Edmund Ho Hau Wah, today officiated the opening ceremony of the Macao Science Center. President Hu arrived on a special flight about noon. Accompanied by Mr Ho, President Hu unveiled the plaque at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by some 170 guests. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Ho said the opening of the Macao Science Centre symbolised the enforcement of science education that would allow teenagers to broaden their vision. He said the institution would not only become the base for popular science, but also an important platform for patriotism education. From its preparation to completion, the Central Government had given full support to the Macao Special Administrative Government which the citizens of Macao would never forget, he said. Mr Ho also expressed his appreciation towards Pei Partnership Architects and professionals who had contributed to the project. After the opening ceremony, President Hu and Mr Ho toured the centre. They visited the showpiece of Shenzhou-Seven and the exhibition hall of Macao’s Light Rapid Transit System. President Hu encouraged some 50 students when he was in the Science Express exhibition hall. “You are the hope and future of our country: I hope you love science, learn science and use science. You will become an innovative talent to service Macao and to service our country when you grow up.” Member of the CPC Central Committee, State Councilor, Liu Yandong, the CPC Central Committee Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee General Office, Director of the National Archives, Ling Jihua, the CPC Central Committee Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, Director of the Policy Research Wang Huning, the Vice Chairman of the National People’s Congress, Li Jianguo, the Vice-Chairman of CPPCC, Director of State Council of Hong Kong and Macao, Liao Hui, the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region Bai Zhijian, the Secretary for Transport and Public Works, Lau Si Io and the President of the Macao Foundation Victor Ng. Macao Science Center is a multi-functional centre designed with three major objectives, namely education, tourism and conferences. It aims to stimulate and cultivate students’ interest in science and enhance public understanding of science and technology through interactive exhibitions and programmes offered at the Planetarium. It is adjacent to the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and Fisherman’s Wharf at the south-eastern corner of the Macao peninsula, surrounded by water on three sides. Together with the Macao Cultural Center, Macao Museum of Art and other attractions, it forms one of the largest cultural and entertainment zones in Macao.
