The Chief Executive, Mr Edmund Ho Hau Wah said today that the Portuguese community is one of the most important components of the society and that they have made great contributions in helping build the Macao SAR with one heart.

Mr Ho made this remark when he attended the reception this evening held by the Portuguese Consulate General to celebrate the Portugal Day, Camoes Day and the Portuguese Community Day.

He said he appreciated the Portuguese community's generosity for the donation to the Sichuan’s earthquake victims.

Mr Ho also welcomed the visiting Secretary of State of Portugal, Dr. Filipe Baptista.

He said the SAR Government would act according to the spirit of the Basic Law andd that all Macao residents, including members of Portuguese community, could live happily in Macao.

Mr Ho also wished the Portugal national team would get the best position in Euro2008, and as well as in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.