Chief Executive Edmund Ho said at the National Day Reception that he is optimistic that the efforts of the SAR Government will bring about developments that will allow Macau to stand proudly as a Special Administrative Region of the Motherland.

The Chief Executive said that the tenth five-year-plan of China had been initiated with remarkable achievements in economic growth as well as civic, political and legal developments.

Mr. Ho also said that the success in bidding for the 2008 Olympic games was a sign that China's national power has gained recognition among the international community.

The Chief Executive remarked that acceptance into the World Trade Organization would further promote the significant growth of China's economy, which stands out among a trend of global recession, adding that these achievements would provide favorable conditions and opportunities for Macau's development in the 21st century.

Speaking of the SAR Government's administration, the Chief Executive said that since the establishment of the SAR, with the support of the Central Government, the cooperation of local people and communities, and the determination and confidence of the government, the two principles of "One Country--Two Systems" and "Macau People Ruling Macau" were well implemented in Macau.

Mr. Ho encouraged the Macau people to utilize their unyielding spirit to overcome problems in the local economy, like unfavorable external conditions and unemployment, and to work for the long-term development of Macau's economy.

The Chief Executive also spoke about last week's Legislative Election, saying that the election was an important step in the political development of Macau, demonstrating that the people of Macau have confidence in the future of Macau and that they are aware of being the masters of Macau.

Mr. Ho also said that officials and civil servants need to interact closely with the public to more clearly understand their demands, so as to ensure that the policies of the government comply with the interests of the people.

The Chief Executive said that the "One Country--Two Systems" principle was being realized in the ever broadening interaction between the SAR and the Mainland. This experience, which has demonstrated the character of Macau in the new era, was also a special part of the country's development.

More than 1000 guests attended the reception, namely the Vice President of CPPCC, Ma Man Kei, the Vice Director of the Central Government Liaison Office in Macau, Li Yongwu, the Commissioner of the Macau SAR Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC, Yuan Tao, the Commanding Officer of the Macau PLA Garrison, Liu Yuejun, the President of the Legislative Assembly, Susana Chou, the President of the Court of Final Appeal, Sam Hou Fai, as well as principal officials and community leaders.