China has given Macau’s efforts to diversify its economy full marks during a busy first day of the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), Zhang Dejiang’s three-day tour.
Arriving at Macau International Airport early Monday, Mr Zhang didn’t specifically mention the city’s gaming industry – which has surged again on the back of nine consecutive months of growth – but eluded to the ongoing expansion of non-gaming facilities in stating, “The central government firmly supports the economic and social development of Macau.
“I am here to experience the development and achievements of Macau and the joy of its citizens,” he said. “Macau’s economic development has gone through an enormous change since its handover. The livelihood of the people has seen obvious improvement with booming opportunities everywhere.”
However, Mr Zhang added that Macau, “now faces an important stage as it makes a transition in its development.”
He was later briefed by Chief Executive Chui Sai On various aspects of the Macau Government’s work, including setting up a Five-Year Development Plan; conducting a mid-term review of the city’s gaming industry; pushing for Macau to become world centre of tourism and leisure; and striving for further diversification of the city’s economy among other topics.
Mr Chui also referenced the Macau gaming industry’s 26-month downturn which began in early 2014, claiming the government would spare no effort in maintaining social stability after a promising recovery in recent times.
Mr Zhang claimed that China was more supportive of Macau over the past year, with his visit this week an opportunity for him to personally inspect the city’s progress.
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