At this refreshing moon-lit night and by the mirror-like water, the Government of China and the Government of Portugal are holding a solemn ceremony here to mark the transfer of government of Macaoand to announce the Chinese Government's resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Macao.This important event, which is a focus of world attention, will be remembered forever in history.

Beginning from this moment, Macaohas entered on a brand-new era in its development.I would like to extend, on behalf of the Central Government and the people of all nationalities in China, our cordial greetings and good wishes to the Macaocompatriots who are returning to the embrace of the motherland.

Beginning from this moment, the friendship between the Chinese and Portuguese peoples and the amicable cooperation between Chinaand Portugalwill develop from a new starting point.Our two sides have worked together in conformity with the historical trend of the times and brought about the smooth transition and transfer of government of Macao.I wish to express heartfelt thanks to all those figures who have made contributions to the settlement of the question of Macao and all those people across the world who have cared for and supported the return of Macao.

The Chinese Government has, in accordance with the great concept of "one country, two systems" initiated by Deng Xiaoping, successfully resolved the questions of Hong Kongand Macao.This marks a significant progress made by the Chinese people in the course of accomplishing the great task of national reunification.The implementation of the concept of "one country, two systems" in Hong Kongand Macaohas played and will continue to play an important exemplary role in our eventual settlement of the Taiwanquestion.The Chinese Government and people are confident in and capable of an early settlement of the Taiwanquestion and the realization of a complete national reunification.

After the return of Macao, the Chinese Government will unswervingly implement the policies of "one country, two systems", "Macaopeople administering Macao" and a high degree of autonomy.The Macao Special Administrative Region will, in accordance with the law, be vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication.Macaoresidents, irrespective of race or belief, will all be masters of this land, enjoying, as equals, the rights and freedoms guaranteed by law.

After the return of Macao, the economic interests of all countries and regions in Macaowill be protected in accordance with the law.I hope that the countries and regions with investment and trade interests in Macaowill continue to work for the stability and development of Macao.

Our Macaocompatriots have a glorious tradition of patriotism, and they have always been related by blood and mutual affinity with the people of the rest of the country.It is our firm belief that, with the support of the Central Government and the people of all nationalities in China, the Macao Special Administrative Region Government and Macaocompatriots will do a good job in the administration, building up and development of Macao.Macao, now back in the embrace of the motherland, will surely have an even brighter tomorrow.undefined