Macau monitors run-up to 1997
PORTUGUESE Prime Minister Anibal Cavaco Silva says the development of Hong Kong in the run-up to 1997 is set to be a model for the people of Macau.
''We understand people in Macau turn their eyes to Hong Kong, because the people of Macau are convinced that developments in Hong Kong are influencing the situation in Macau,'' Mr Cavaco Silva said after a two-day visit to the territory.
Mr Cavaco Silva exchanged ideas on political reform with Governor Chris Patten at Government House yesterday morning.
Mr Cavaco Silva recently met Chinese leaders in Beijing.
He said he had discussed human rights during his meetings with President Jiang Zemin, Vice-President Rong Yiren and Premier Li Peng.
''I stressed not only social and economic rights. I insisted China's attitude was creating difficulties in normalising relations between China and the European Union,'' Mr Cavaco Silva said.
The 54-year-old leader flew to Paris last night.
