‘Apple of country’s eye’: top official tells Macau to maximise business advantages, economic foundations and cultural inclusiveness

Macau leader Ho Iat-seng says Xia Baolong did not talk about matters concerning coming chief executive election during seven-day visit

Ho says Macau will leverage and maximise its ‘six advantages’ to drive development

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Visitors pack the streets of Macau during the recent Labour Day “golden week” holiday. Photo: AFP

Published: 5:26pm, 19 May 2024Updated: 5:51pm, 19 May 2024

Beijing’s top official overseeing Macau affairs has urged the city to maximise its business advantages, economic foundations and cultural inclusiveness to bolster its growth as an international metropolis, the casino hub’s leader has said.

City leader Ho Iat-seng also noted on Sunday that Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, did not talk about matters concerning a coming chief executive election during his seven-day visit.

Ho’s term as chief executive ends in December and an election is expected to be held later this year.

“Xia put forward the vivid metaphor that Macau is the apple of the country’s eye. Macau’s important status is self-evident,” Ho said after Xia wrapped up his inspection trip and left Macau.

“His emphasis on staying united to polish Macau’s golden business card as an international metropolis is positive affirmation and encouragement for the Special Administrative Region.”

Macau leader Ho Iat-seng has not revealed whether he plans to run for re-election. Photo: Handout

Ho pledged that Macau would leverage and maximise its “six advantages” to drive development, and collaborate with various sectors and residents to diversify the city’s industrial structure.