Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Thursday, April 11, 2002
US Govt Issues Second Annual Report on Macao
Macao under Chinese sovereignty continues to develop in an overall positive direction, according to a U.S. government report released by the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong Thursday.
Macao under Chinese sovereignty continues to develop in an overall positive direction, according to a U.S. government report released by the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong Thursday.
The report is the second annual "United States-Macao Policy Act Report" , which requires the Secretary of State to prepare an annual report describing significant developments in U.S. relations with Macao and the development of democratic institutions in Macao.
Over the past year, the Macao government has stated strong support for the global anti-terrorism campaign, taken decisive steps to open and reposition its economy, reorganized its customs service, and moved further to project its own identity through increased official interaction with the rest of the world, the report said.
Macao citizens continue to enjoy basic human rights and a unique way of life distinct from China. Macao officials continue to run Macao and make their decisions pursuant to Macao's own identity and interests, the report said.
In recognition of Macao's high degree of autonomy, the United States continues to accord Macao a special status distinct from the rest of China under U.S. law and policy, the report said.
This report highlighted Macao's progress in support for the fight against terrorism, preservation of Macao's free market economy, continuation of Macao's unique way of life, particularly respect for civil liberties and human rights, efforts to combat Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) piracy, and law enforcement cooperation to prevent transnational crime and money laundering.