The EC-Macao Joint Committee meeting took place in Brussels on 9 July 2010, in accordance with article 16 of the EC-Macao Trade and Co-operation Agreement of 15 December 1992. This meeting was the ninth one since China’s resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Macao on 20 December 1999. The previous meeting was held in Macao in February 2009.

The Delegation of the European Commission was headed by Director for Asia, DG External Relations Mr. James Moran, who stressed that these annual bilateral meetings were an effective way for both sides to discuss issues of common interest, global challenges and ways to enhance further cooperation. The Macao Delegation was led by Secretary for Administration and Justice Ms. Florinda Chan.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the latest developments in their relationships and took stock of co-operation between the two sides. Both parties welcomed the launch of the EU - Macao Legal Co-operation Project, which is aimed at strengthening Macao's legal system and to enhance public administration, legal and judicial expertise, following the successful completion of a similar project in 2007.

Macao informed the EC of recent developments in the Special Administrative Region, including its celebration of the 10th anniversary of Macao's return to Mainland China and the election of a new Chief Executive, Mr. Fernando Chui, who replaced his predecessor Edmund Ho. The Macao Delegation also reported on the SAR's quick economic recovery from the global financial crisis and gave details on its efforts in diversifying the economy.

The European Commission briefed Macao on the EU's gradual economic recovery path from the global financial crisis and the EU's efforts to stabilize the financial markets and increase fiscal consolidation. It also discussed the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty, how the Treaty would affect the EU's relations with Macao, and the establishment of a European External Action Service as provided by the Treaty.

The European Commission congratulated the Macao SAR on the 10th anniversary of its establishment and expressed its willingness to strengthen existing ties and cooperation. The EC Delegation also noted positively Macao's efforts to diversify its economy and expressed a wish to see progress in bilateral dialogue on matters such as civil aviation and taxation of savings.

On EU-Macao co-operation, the European Commission encouraged Macao to participate in EC worldwide programmes, such as the Erasmus Mundus higher education programme. Finally, the European Commission and Macao authorities expressed their willingness to explore new areas of co-operation, such as environmental protection, academic and cultural exchanges as well as other trade and economic issues.