On December 20th, the Macao Special Administrative Region turns 14.

The Macao Special Administrative Region turned 14 On December 20th. On December 20th, 1999, the territory was returned to China. To celebrate the anniversary, the SAR government is holding a series of activities.

Macao is rising. 14 years after its return to China, the Special Administrative Region has witnessed a tremendous change. December 20th is 14th anniversary of the handover, a flag-raising ceremony was held at the Golden Lotus Square at 8 in the morning. Officials from the SAR government and Macao-based offices of the central government attended the ceremony. Hundreds of Macao residents were also present.

"I’m so excited that Macao was returned to China 14 years ago. The feeling is just like family reunion."

Chief Executive Chui Sai On then addressed a reception.

14th Anniversary of Macao's return to China

"Today we are holding big celebrations to mark the 14th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR. I want to extend very warm welcome to all the guests and friends." said Chui Sai On, Chief Executive of Macao.

Macao holds a series of celebrations to mark the occasion. One of the highlights is the "Parade through Macao, Latin City", started at 3:30 in the afternoon.

The opening ceremony of the parade takes place here in front of the Ruins of St. Paul’s, where a wondrous journey of revival kicks off. Artists from around the world raise the curtain on a series of fascinating shows, spreading joy all over the city.

The Parade is held under the slogans “Peace, Love and Cultural Integration, attracting thousands of residents and tourists. The government hopes to let more people dig deep into the diverse cultural atmosphere of Macau.

In the past 14 years, Macau’s has achieved huge improvements .The economy has registered a stable growth, with the average annual GDP growth rate exceeds 12%. The gaming industry has developed a very close relation with the tourism industry and become a pillar of Macao´s economy. It has also earned Macao an appellation of "Monte Carlo of the Orient". ...The central government will continue supporting Macao’s development into a world tourism and leisure centre, and meanwhile, an economic and trade co-operation platform for China and Portuguese-speaking countries. People are optimistic that the policy will provide a solid foundation for maintaining Macau’s long-term stability and prosperity.

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