Macao Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng on Tuesday pledged to seize the historic opportunities presented by the nation's further deepening reform comprehensively by aligning its development with that of the nation’s, and relentlessly buttressing its advantages and uniqueness.

Addressing a National Day reception held by the Macao SAR government, he said the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China has issued a clarion call for further and comprehensive deepening of reforms.

With such a historic opportunity, Macao must keep up with the times, respond to the changes accurately, scientifically and proactively, Ho told a gathering of social dignitaries at the reception marking the 75th anniversary of the nation’s founding, as well as the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland.

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He said Macao has been the apple of the nation’s eye for the past 25 years, and the country has provided the strongest backing and the greatest opportunities to the city. 

Noting the dazzling achievements the nation and Macao have made over the years, Ho said the Macao SAR government and various sectors, under the leadership of the central government, have overcome unprecedented challenges and scaled new heights.

Recalling the tough times during the COVID-19 pandemic when he took office, Ho said the three-year battle against the scourge has demonstrated Macao's ability to rise to the occasion and stick together in time of crisis. 

During Ho’s five-year in office, the outgoing leader said the city has bettered its legislation to safeguard national security, further diversified its economy, optimized its business environment, improved its governance and people’s livelihood, and made new progress in making Macao a livable city.

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Macao is set to pick its new leader on Oct 13. Former president of Macao’s Court of Final Appeal Sam Hou-fai is the sole candidate running for the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao SAR. 

Macao has held an array of events creating a festive atmosphere ahead of National Day.

On Tuesday morning, Ho and representatives of various sectors gathered at Golden Lotus Square for the national flag-raising ceremony, with about 3,000 residents taking part in a walk to mark the occasion.

Earlier on Sunday, some 21,000 residents walked along the new Macau Bridge to welcome National Day.

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Complimentary bus rides for residents are being offered by two local companies, along with electronic coupons and dining promotions.

At night, two fireworks displays, themed around Macao’s 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland and “2 Souls, 1 Destiny”, will illuminate the sky as a commemorative gift to the nation on its 75th birthday.