Sam Hou Fai to lead 120-member delegation to Portugal, over 39 cooperation agreements expected

[Photo; TDM]

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai will lead a 120-strong delegation of business leaders from Macau and mainland China on his first overseas visit since taking office, a four-day trip to Portugal from April 18 to 21 that signals a strong push for economic and commercial cooperation.

While political meetings are on the agenda, the visit will place heavy emphasis on deal-making and cultural diplomacy.

In an interview with TDM Canal, Sam noted that than 39 cooperation agreements are expected to be signed with Portuguese entities across sectors including trade, the Sino-Portuguese platform, education, culture, tourism, talent training, health, and advanced technology.

In addition to companies from Macau and Hengqin, more than 20 renowned firms from the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and other Chinese provinces will participate in the business delegation, underscoring strong regional interest in strengthening ties with Portugal.

Cultural diplomacy and student engagement

In the interview, Sam noted, “The Macau SAR government will hold a photography exhibition showcasing the achievements of the ‘One country, two systems’ principle, as well as a commercial and economic promotional event and a cultural exchange activity.”

He added that he will meet with the University of Macau (UM) students studying in Portugal to encourage their academic efforts. The photography exhibition aims to continue the traditional friendship between China and Portugal, inviting figures who contributed to Macau’s successful return to the motherland. A video featuring interviews with representatives recalling historic moments and sharing their perspectives for the future will also be screened.

Geneva and Brussels added to itinerary

Beyond Lisbon, Sam confirmed that Geneva and Brussels are also on the European itinerary, broadening the scope of the mission beyond bilateral relations with Portugal.

In Geneva, he is expected to meet with the head of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the ambassador of the Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the WTO. Macau established its Economic and Trade Office to the WTO in 2003, which has since carried out substantial work. Sam indicated he will visit the office to greet and encourage staff to better promote exchanges and cooperation between Macau and the WTO.

“Geneva represents an important window for Macau, strengthening its ties with global organizations and boosting cooperation,” he said.

Turning to Brussels, Sam reaffirmed the importance of the European Union to Macau’s external strategy. “The European Union remains a key cooperation partner for Macau, whether through commercial collaboration or people-to-people exchanges,” he said. “The Macau SAR government attaches great importance to building ties with the EU.”

In Brussels, he will meet with leaders at EU headquarters to review Macau’s implementation of ‘One country, two systems’ while reinforcing pragmatic cooperation with EU institutions.

Meetings with Portuguese leaders

While the detailed agenda in Lisbon has not been fully disclosed, TDM has learned that meetings are planned with key Portuguese leaders, including António José Seguro, Luís Montenegro, and José Pedro Aguiar-Branco. Sam will also meet with representatives of Portugal’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches to strengthen cooperation across multiple fronts.