Macau: Chinese President Xi Jinping has commended Macau for its "new achievements" in economic diversification and the orderly growth of its gambling industry under the leadership of outgoing Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng.

Speaking at a banquet ahead of the 25th anniversary of Macau's handover from Portugal to China, Xi highlighted the city's progress under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework. He credited Ho's administration for uniting various sectors and steering Macau through challenges with pragmatism, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the 25 years since its return to Chinese rule, Macau has become the world's casino capital by gaming revenue, surpassing Las Vegas. However, Beijing has consistently emphasized the need for the city to diversify its economy beyond gambling.

Xi noted that Macau's gaming industry had developed "in a healthy and orderly manner in accordance with the law" and praised the city's strides in economic diversification.

New Leadership and Vision for Macau
Former top judge Sam Hou-fai is set to take over as Macau's Chief Executive on Friday. Chosen by a 400-member committee as the sole candidate, Sam will inherit the responsibility of furthering the city's development under Beijing's guidance.

During his visit, Xi outlined three key expectations for Macau's future:

Accurately identifying its role and scientifically planning its development.
Proactively aligning with China's national strategies, such as the Greater Bay Area initiative, aimed at integrating Macau with Hong Kong and nine southern Chinese cities to rival Silicon Valley.
Becoming an "open and inclusive" hub that attracts talent while promoting reform and innovation.
Highlights of Xi’s Visit
As part of his three-day visit, Xi toured the Macau University of Science and Technology and Hengqin Island, a territory leased by Beijing to Macau to facilitate non-gaming developments.

Heightened security measures, including roadblocks, were in place around key venues like the Macao East Asian Games Dome, where Xi delivered his speech.

Unlike neighboring Hong Kong, Macau has experienced relative political stability since its handover, avoiding large-scale unrest. Xi’s remarks and visit underscore Beijing's continued focus on Macau as a model of economic growth and governance under Chinese sovereignty.