Following is the full text of a speech made by Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji at the Reception held by the State Council marking Macao's return:

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades,

Today, the Chinese and Portuguese Governments have held a successful ceremony for the transfer of government of Macao, and the Chinese Government has resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Macao. The establishment of the Macao Special Administrative Region (Macao SAR) has been proclaimed and Macao has returned to the embrace of the great motherland. This is another historic event for the Chinese nation following Hong Kong's return to China.

It marks a new milestone on the way towards the complete reunification of China and is a major triumph for justice and progress of mankind.

On this occasion of national jubilation, we are happy to be here for a grand celebration of the return of Macao. Upon its return to China, Macao will implement the policies of "one country, two systems" and "Macao people administering Macao" and will enjoy a high degree of autonomy. The Macao SAR will be directly under the authority of the Central People's Government, and under the Basic Law of the Macao Special Administrative Region, will be vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. The Central People's Government will give every support to the Macao SAR Government in its administration, according to law, of affairs that fall within the autonomy of the Region. Macao will give full play to its unique advantages, conduct extensive economic and cultural exchanges with foreign countries and play a significant role as a bridge and window in the contacts and cooperation between China

and the rest of the world. Our Macao compatriots are now the masters of Macao. We are sure that they will feel more than ever the warmth of the big family of the Chinese nation. With the support of the great motherland, Macao will surely continue to overcome difficulties on its way ahead and enjoy long-term stability, development and prosperity. The return of Macao will facilitate the final solution of the Taiwan question, and the complete reunification of China.

Now please raise your glasses and join me in a toast

To Macao's return to China and its long-term stability and

development,

To the reunification and prosperity of China, and the well-

being of its people,

To world peace and cooperation, and

To the health of all guests, friends and comrades present.

Cheers!