Liaison official urges locals to guard against Covid-19 to stabilize economy

The central government’s top liaison official in the Macau Special Administrative Region urged those from all walks of life in Macau to do their best in the battle against Covid-19, in a bid to accelerate the city’s economic recovery.
Fu Ziying, the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macau SAR, delivered his speech at yesterday’s Chinese New Year cocktail reception, saying, “considering the pandemic is still sweeping worldwide, Macau has to continue to guard [against Covid-19] to stabilize the economy, safeguard the job market and protect the livelihood of grassroots.”
Following Fu’s remarks, Macau’s Chief Executive (CE) Ho Iat Seng addressed guests, saying that Macau has achieved a hard-won triumph in the fight against coronavirus, largely thanks to the strong backing of the central government and the concerted effort of everyone in society.
Ho also stressed that the 2021 year also marks the commencement of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).
“[Given the 14th Five-Year Plan,] The country has entered a new stage of development, which is sure to usher in a lot of opportunities for Macau,” Ho said at the reception.
In the ceremony, Macau’s top leader vowed that the SAR government will continue to go the extra mile to keep Covid-19 at bay and accelerate the city’s economic rebound, foster economic diversification, safeguard the public livelihood and strengthen patriotism in the community through education.
Ho also pledged that the city will “proactively participate” in the development of the Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative.
The CE highlighted the importance of safeguarding national security and social stability and ensuring that the seventh legislative council election, which will be held this year, takes place.
Due to safety concerns during the pandemic, the liaison office in Macau scaled down this year’s new year cocktail reception.
The event was also attended by Edmund Ho Hau Wah, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Consultative Conference; Fernando Chui Sai On, Macau’s former CE; and authorities from Macau and China.