Macao is buzzing with excitement as major streets, squares, and landmarks are decked out in colorful decorations and a wealth of celebratory events have been held to mark the 25th anniversary of its return to China on Friday.
The iconic Senado Square and prominent streets are now lined with the flags of the People's Republic of China and the Macao Special Administrative Region. Additionally, the city's tourist attractions have been decorated, adding to the joyful atmosphere in anticipation of this historic occasion.
Macao residents expressed their delight over the city's significant strides in the past years which were exemplified by the Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Zhuhai City, south China's Guangdong Province.
The cooperation zone, located in Hengqin, an island located just across the water from Macao, was established in 2021 by the Chinese central government to foster closer integration between Guangdong and Macao.
"I think Macao has changed a lot over the past few years. For example, the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone was jointly built, created and managed by the two sides. I believe they are epoch-making changes and progress, which have enabled young people to better move upwards, and the local people to live and work in peace and contentment," said Leong Kai Chon, a Macao resident.
"There are more and more exchanges between the mainland and Macao. We often arrange different exchange tours, organizing Macao students to the mainland. We feel that our country is so special and fascinating to us," said Chio Chon Kit, a university student in Macao. A number of celebration activities have been organized in Macao for days. On the 233-meter-high outdoor observation deck of Macao Tower, the tallest landmark in Macao, a wonderful high-altitude lion dance took place. A Macao fishing fleet parade was also staged with 25 fishing boats decorated with celebratory flags and theme slogans, sending best wishes to the motherland and Macao.
Fueled by a tourism boom, Macao is seeing a rising tourist arrival trend. As of December 7, Macao had recorded 32.545 million visitor arrivals this year.
"We came to Macao today specifically to feel the atmosphere of the 25th anniversary of its return," said Liu Jingxian, a tourist from the northern Chinese city of Tianjin, who was touring the famous Ruins of St. Paul's.
"I have been to Macao before its return to China, and it is completely different now. It looks more prosperous and more advanced. Such a strong China makes us overseas Chinese feel we are more honored and proud wherever we go," said Liu Jianguo, an overseas Chinese national in Malaysia.
Macao buzzing with festive spirit to mark 25th anniversary of return to China
