Macao has witnessed better security situation, continuous economic growth and booming tourism business over the past two years, thanks to effective efforts made by the special administrative region (SAR) government, said Vong Fong Va, director of the Macao Chinese Education Association, at a reception.

He expressed his belief that under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems," the SAR government will overcome existing difficulties caused by the world's economic slowdown to make more achievements, with the motherland as a strong backing.

Chui Sai On, secretary for social affairs and culture, noted that greater efforts will be made by the SAR government to cultivate a batch of young people with strong responsibility and boldness to meet the need of social and economic development.

Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah of the Macao SAR attended the reception.

(People's Daily December 17, 2001)