Premier pushes for closer partnership with Macau

Monday 10th of October 2016

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has reaffirmed China’s hopes to build more substantial economic and trade ties, and sound partnerships with Portuguese-speaking countries, Xinhua reports.

The Premier made the comments at the fifth Ministerial Conference of the Forum of Economic and Trade Cooperation Between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries, which he has attended as part of his 3-day visit to Macau this week.

Li praised the recent economic improvement in Macau.

“We can acknowledge that in the first semester of this year and specially in the last two months the economy had a new [positive] change and that will also have effects in the future,” he said referring to the recent gaming results, reports Macau Daily Times.

Li also noted the central government’s evaluation of the work by the MSAR government was very positive.

“On the last few years and under the leadership of the Chief Executive, the MSAR government has benefited the population and the fellow countrymen of Macau,” he said.

Regarding the diversification of Macau’s economy, Li also reaffirmed the central government's support of the local economy.

“I had the opportunity to see and acknowledge the modernity and prosperity of Macau but also the cultural diversification and I believe that this will continue and the economy will reach the goal of its diversification,” Li remarked.

It is expected that Li will also announce policies for Macau’s long term stability during his three day visit to the SAR, with China promising to continue support for Macau in its efforts to cut its reliance on gambling.