MSAR Discusses Territorial Waters with Beijing Officials

The MSAR Government received positive feedback from Central Government departments (Photo provided by Government Information Bureau)

The Macao SAR Government is in the process of developing studies for the adoption of the 'Medium-Long-term Plan for the Use and Development of the Territorial Sea of the MSAR (2016-2036)'. Last month, Chief Executive of the Macao SAR, Chui Sai On and his delegation concluded a series of meetings with central government departments in Beijing, during which both parties exchanged ideas on the integrated planning of Macao's territorial waters, including the rational use, preservation and management of water resources. These initiatives received a number of favourable reactions.

Issues raised during the discussions included the development plan of maritime transport and safety management, environmental protection and management, the development of economic activity and use of maritime resources, territorial marine management and law enforcement. The related departments also shared experiences on public policy and practical usage in order to provide clarification and suggestions to the delegation. On the basis of existing contacts, local departments and their Central Government counterparts established direct dialogue on several specific issues.

During the mission, the MSAR Government took note of the measurements to be taken to participate in the 'Belt and Road' initiative. The Central Government attaches great importance to Macao's participation and assistance in building up the 'Belt and Road' initiative. Since last year, departments of the two governments have developed a frequent dialogue, studying a series of policies and measures on the subject.

The policies and measures in question primarily revolve around the principle that Macao is an important segment of the Maritime Silk Road, with the particularity of being a point of contact with Portuguese-speaking countries. The Central Government's proposals are based upon five general areas; namely, 'broadening the scope of co-operation around financial services'; 'exporting cutting-edge services using technical advantages'; 'stimulating economic and commercial dialogue based on geographical advantages' ; 'promoting communion among peoples with a focus on human exchange' and 'employing synergies to deepen regional co-operation'.

The MSAR Government believes that the adoption of the policies and measures described above give full expression to the support of the Central Government, which benefits the integration of the MSAR into the major national development strategy. In this way, the adequate diversification of the economy is expected to increase pace, with the resolution of various issues related to local development. The MSAR Government intends to obtain a valuable opportunity by implementing the support policies of the Central Government.