The Government would step up efforts in strengthening relations with the people and the press for long-term effective governance and sustainable development, said the Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On.

The Government would take measures to provide more on-the-job and professional training to journalists to develop a more favourable working environment in the industry, he said.

Speaking at a dinner on 16 March to representatives of local news outlets and correspondents stationed in Macao representing media in the mainland and Hong Kong, Mr Chui said he noted their patriotic spirits and efforts to better serve the people.

Their contributions in the implementation of “One country, two systems” helped to build a more harmonious society, he said.

With advancing technology in disseminating information and a more prosperous publishing industry, the people have more alternatives in receiving diversified information.

Mr Chui re-iterated that the Government had always attached great importance in upholding press freedom.