Silver jubilee, golden moments: Macao celebrates 25th return anniversary

Macao celebrates the 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland today. President Xi Jinping, who arrived in the special administrative regionon Wednesday, will attend a gathering celebrating the anniversary and the inauguration ceremony of Macao’s sixth-term government. From 1999 to 2023, Macao’s per capita GDP more than quadrupled to around US$69,000. On Forbes magazine’s 2024 list of the world’s richest places, Macao ranked first in Asia and second globally. It is also one of the safest cities in the world. The region has seen historic achievements in economic and social development, and Macao residents’ sense of gain, happiness, and security has been constantly enhanced. 

Tourists explore Senado Square in Macao on Dec. 18, as festive decorations fill the city ahead of the 25th anniversary of its return to China. Photos by Xinhua

Macao's Ying Kee Tea House inheritor Lo Shek-leun (L) and his wife display blessing messages Dec. 18.

Macao children's literature author Lydia Ieong showcases blessing messages Dec. 18.

Macao Kao Yip Middle School Grade 10 student Wong Lim-on displays his blessing messages Dec. 18.

A local stall owner hangs flags in Macao on Dec. 18 ahead of Macao’s 25th anniversary of return to China.

A festive display set up in front of the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral in Macao is seen Dec. 18, as the city celebrates the 25th anniversary of its return to China.

A visitor takes selfies in front of a celebratory display at the Barrier Gate checkpoint in Macao on Dec. 18.

Visitors take a group photo in front of a sign celebrating the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to China.

Students pose for a photo in front of a celebratory banner at the Macau University of Science and Technology on Dec. 18.

A tourist poses for a photo in front of the Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral in Macao on Dec. 18.