Last week, Macau celebrated the 25th anniversary of its return to China, marking a significant milestone in the region's history. The occasion was graced by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who delivered a keynote speech highlighting the importance of Macau's experience in implementing the "one country, two systems" principle. President Xi's words offer valuable insights for Macau's future development and provides a roadmap for Hong Kong's growth and prosperity.

The history of Hong Kong and Macau is deeply intertwined, with both regions having been influenced by colonial powers and later returning to Chinese sovereignty. Despite their distinct colonial pasts, both regions have maintained strong cultural and economic ties with China. In recent years, Hong Kong and Macau have strengthened their cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, and infrastructure development, with the aim of creating a more integrated and prosperous region. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area initiative, launched in 2019, is a notable example of this cooperation, aiming to create a world-class bay area that applies the strengths of each region to drive economic growth and innovation.

In his speech, President Xi emphasized the need for Macau to continue upholding the "patriots governing Macau" principle, which has enabled the region to enjoy unprecedented rights and freedoms. He also encouraged Macau to use its unique strengths and advantages to drive economic growth and development. These words of wisdom are also relevant to Hong Kong, which is poised to capitalize on its own distinct advantages to cement its position as a global financial hub.

President Xi's three-point expectation for Macau – "aim high, be inclusive, and strive for excellence" – offers a valuable framework for Hong Kong's future development. By embracing the Greater Bay Area initiative and executing the nation's development strategy, Hong Kong can unlock new opportunities for growth and show its global influence. As an international financial center, Hong Kong boasts a favorable business environment and a mature legal system, making it an attractive destination for global talent and investment.

To realize its full potential, Hong Kong must continue to demonstrate its openness and inclusiveness, welcoming diverse cultures and perspectives while promoting cultural exchange and understanding. By streamlining its business environment, simplifying talent acquisition processes, and reducing operational costs, Hong Kong can enhance its competitiveness and attract more international resources.

President Xi's vision for Hong Kong's future is clear: The region must seize opportunities, drive innovation, and push for high-quality development. By doing so, Hong Kong can become a key bridgehead for the nation's high-level opening-up, making significant contributions to China's prosperity and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

As a unique cultural exchange, Hong Kong is well-positioned to promote cultural exchange and understanding between East and West. By encouraging bilingual education, cultural exchange programs, and exhibitions, Hong Kong can foster a deeper appreciation of Chinese and Western cultures. The region can also capitalize on its cultural diversity to develop innovative products and services, driving tourism growth and showcasing its distinct cultural charm to the world.

A possible joint project between Hong Kong and Macau is the formation of a "Cultural Exchange and Innovation Hub". It may aim to promote cultural exchange and understanding between East and West, drive innovation, and demonstrate the distinct cultural charm of both regions. The Hub may include a cultural exchange center, innovation incubator, tourism development program, and education and training initiative. By using the unique strengths and advantages of both regions, the project will enhance their competitiveness as global financial hubs and innovation centers, contributing to China's prosperity and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. With government funding, private investment, and international grants, the project will establish Hong Kong and Macau as a world-class cultural exchange and innovation hub, fostering a deeper appreciation of Chinese and Western cultures and driving economic growth and innovation in the region.

Hong Kong's future development can draw valuable lessons from Macau's success story. By embracing reform, welcoming challenges, and unlocking its creative potential, Hong Kong can create a brighter future and write a new chapter in the "one country, two systems" narrative. With its unique strengths and advantages, Hong Kong can make significant contributions to global cultural exchange and the promotion of Chinese culture, cementing its position as a shining example of prosperity and development in the Asia-Pacific region.

By Dr. Bankee Kwan

Member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee and President of the Federation of Hong Kong-Shanghai Associations.

Dr. Philip Wong

Deputy Director of STEAM Education and Research Centre, Lingnan University.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of Orange News.

Photo: AFP