The Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR) of the People’s Republic of China expresses strong opposition to content within the 2022 annual report on the MSAR, issued lately by the European Union (EU).

The report blatantly defamed the work Macao has done regarding revising the city’s Law on Safeguarding National Security, and made smears regarding the condition of human rights and rule of law in Macao. It also contained baseless claims concerning Macao’s successful implementation of the “One country, two systems” principle. In doing so, the report demonstrated completely its attempt at political manipulation based on bias.

Since Macao’s return to the motherland in 1999, the city has seen rapid economic development, while the city’s residents have fully enjoyed extensive rights and freedoms enshrined in the Basic Law of Macao. The “One country, two systems” principle has also been successfully implemented. These are undeniable facts.

With the strong support of the Central Government, along with concerted effort from across the community, Macao will surely see further achievements under the “One country, two systems” principle.

The EU has no right to intervene in Macao’s internal affairs, as they are part of China’s domestic affairs. The MSAR Government urges the EU to act in line with international law and the fundamental norms of international relations regarding a ‘non-intervention’ approach to the internal affairs of other countries.

The EU mentioned in the 2022 annual report its support for the “One country, two systems” principle and the Basic Law of Macao. The MSAR Government hopes the EU will act in keeping with those pledges of support, and match those positive words with actions.