Visiting Chinese President Jiang Zemin said Tuesday that ensuring a smooth handover of Macao is in the fundamental interests of both China and Portugal.

During talks with his Portuguese counterpart Jorge Sampaio in Lisbon, Jiang said that a series of important issues facing Macao's transitional period have been solved thanks to the joint efforts and cooperation between China and Portugal since they signed a joint declaration on Macao.

He said that this has created necessary conditions for Macao's smooth handover and for implementing the policy of "one country, two systems", "governing Macao by Macao people" and high-degree autonomy.

He hoped that with nearly two months left before the handover, both sides will speed up consultations and resolve the remaining issues in light of the long-term development of their friendly relations and cooperation.

Jiang reaffirmed that after China resumes the exercise of sovereignty over Macao, the central government will strictly abide by the policy of "one country, two systems" and the basic law of the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR) and will not interfere with the affairs that fall within the jurisdiction of MSAR's autonomy.

He added that Portugal's legitimate rights and interests in Macao and the customs and cultural tradition of the Portuguese descendants in the region will be protected and respected.

"I believe that Macao will undoubtedly play the role of bridge and bond between China and Portugal and between China and the European Union in developing their relations in the days to come," Jiang said.

He said that ensuring a smooth and successful handover of Macao represents an important manifestation of the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries.

Jiang said he will go personally to Macao for the handover ceremony.