The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, said today he hoped his current visit to Portugal would further strengthen the friendship and bilateral co-operations between the two places.

Mr Chui, who was leading a 60-member delegation to Lisboa, was speaking to reporters at the ferry terminal before he left for Hong Kong for his flight to Portugal.

He said that based on the good foundation of a co-operation agreement inked in 2001 between Macao and Portugal, this visit would help step up co-operation, as well as reinforcing Macao’s function as a platform for Portugal and Portuguese-speaking nations.

During the seven-day visit, Mr Chui will meet the President of Portugal, Mr Aníbal Cavaco Silva, and the Prime Minister of Portugal, Mr José Sócrates.

Members of the delegation included the President of the Legislative Assembly, Mr Lau Cheok Va, the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Tam Pak Yuen, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Mr Cheong U, and a number of local entrepreneur.

The Secretary for Administration and Justice, Ms Florinda Chan will be the acting Chief Executive while Mr Chui is away.