The Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR) Government expresses its strong dissatisfaction with, and resolute opposition to, the content of the “Macao Special Administrative Region: Annual Report for 2024”, recently issued by the European Union (EU).

The report is factually inaccurate and contains biased comments regarding Macao’s political and social development, including unfounded allegations concerning amendments to the Legislative Assembly Election Law and other legislation.

Since its return to the motherland, with the steadfast support of the Central Government, Macao has firmly implemented the “One country, two systems” principle and the Basic Law of Macao. The MSAR has achieved steady economic development, maintained long-term social stability and harmony, and continuously enhanced public welfare measures. Macao residents enjoy extensive rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of assembly. These achievements have received broad recognition, have been widely praised by the international community, and enjoy strong support from Macao residents. These are undeniable facts that cannot be disregarded by the EU.

In fact, amendments to the Legislative Assembly Election Law, the Oath-taking Law, and other legislation have drawn upon the legislative experiences of other jurisdictions, while fully considering Macao’s legal traditions and social circumstances. During the revision process of these pieces of legislation, the MSAR Government extensively consulted the public and relevant stakeholders. These amendments have further refined the electoral system and the oath-taking procedure in line with the principle of “patriots governing Macao”, thereby contributing to the enduring success of the “One country, two systems” principle in Macao.

Macao’s affairs are purely China’s internal matters. The publication, year after year, of such a report by the EU constitutes an interference in China’s domestic affairs and in the affairs of the MSAR, contradicting fundamental principles of international law. As an important partner of China and the MSAR, the EU has repeatedly expressed support for the “One country, two systems” principle and its implementation in Macao. The MSAR Government therefore urges the EU to honour its commitments and take concrete steps conducive to fostering bilateral relations.