The Government will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people in facing the challenges of the global financial crisis to will guarantee a stable and harmonious society.

This is stated by the Chief Executive, Mr Edmund Ho Hau Wah, in his Lunar New Year Message today. He urged the residents of Macao to carry forward their virtues of diligence, enterprise and inclusiveness.

He said the Government would stand side by side with the residents and overcome the challenges ahead.

By taking into account the motherland and Macao, we will be able to tackle the difficulties and bring a bright future for Macao.

Mr Ho also thanked the civil servants and residents who had to work over the holidays. He wished everyone in Macao a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.