The Chief Executive, Mr Ho Iat Seng, issued a letter of condolence to express his deepest sorrow regarding the death of former president of the Portuguese Republic Mr Jorge Sampaio.

In the letter sent to the current President of the Portuguese Republic, Mr Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Mr Ho said he was profoundly saddened by the news, and expressed his deepest condolences on behalf of the Macao Special Administrative Region Government, and personally, to the family of Mr Sampaio.

Mr Sampaio was an extraordinary political leader of Portugal, said Mr Ho. He played an active role in facilitating Macao’s return to China, and ensuring a smooth transfer of power between the two countries. Mr Sampaio greatly contributed to strengthening exchanges and cooperation between Macao and Portugal, while promoting friendly ties between China and Portugal.

On 20 December 1999, Mr Sampaio was in Macao attending the ceremony marking China’s resumption of sovereignty over the city. That marked an indelible moment in history, said the Chief Executive’s letter.

The loss of Mr Sampaio was a moment of great sadness. His contribution would always be remembered, said Mr Ho.