Over the 25 years since its return to the motherland, Macao has forged ahead unwaveringly along the correct path of "One Country, Two Systems," with the firm support of the central government. In recent years, in particular, as the nation's 14th Five-Year Plan has been fully implemented, this "land of lotus" has embraced a new posture in integrating into the country's overall development, demonstrating vigorous vitality through upholding fundamental principles while breaking new ground.

The prosperity and stability of Macao are underpinned by the hardware connectivity of infrastructure between Guangdong anThe prosperity and stability of Macao are underpinned by the hardware connectivity of infrastructure between Guangdong and Macao.tion. Policies such as the multifunctional free trade account system in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, and the innovative model of Macao Registration and Hengqin Manufacturing for the traditional Chinese medicine industry, have opened new pathways for Macao's appropriate economic diversification.

What is particularly commendable is that Macao's development vision has always resonated with national strategies. Since its return, Macao has firmly established a constitutional order based on the Constitution and the Basic Law, while continuously improving its legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security. In consolidating the social foundation of patriotism and love for Macao, the region has built a cohesive society centered on national identity through a tripartite linkage of community networks, livelihood safeguards and the education system. On this basis, Macao has fully leveraged the unique advantages of "One Country, Two Systems" to participate in and contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative, expanded the functions of the China-Portuguese-speaking Countries Cooperation Platform, and gradually enhanced trade and economic cooperation with Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries. This open approach, grounded in "what the nation needs and what Macao excels in," has not only promoted appropriate economic diversification but also significantly elevated Macao's visibility and reputation in the international community.

Standing at a new historical starting point, Macao will aim high and actively align with national strategies such as the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, demonstrating greater achievements on the international stage. With an inclusive spirit, it will gather talents under the banner of patriotism and love for Macao, uniting forces to build a better Macao. Embracing determination and innovation, Macao will fully leverage the institutional strengths of "One Country, Two Systems." Under the strong leadership of the central government and guided by the values of patriotism and love for Macao, this city, where Eastern and Western cultures converge, is integrating into the nation's development with unwavering resolve. In doing so, Macao is contributing uniquely to the country's prosperity in the new era and painting a splendid chapter of its own in the journey toward national rejuvenation, continuously pioneering new prospects for its development.

The author, Ip Kuai Peng, is vice rector of the City University of Macau.