Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji made a speech at the ceremony for the establishment of the Macao Special Administration Region (MSAR) and the swearing-in of the MSAR government. The full text of his speech is as follows:

Honored Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On this grand and historic occasion, I would like to extend, on behalf of the Central People's Government of the People's Republicof China, our warm congratulations on the establishment of the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (Macao SAR). I wish to express our deep appreciation to the Macao people from all walks of life who have cared for, supported and contributed to the return of Macao.

As of today, the Basic Law of the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China takes effect, and the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region starts to exercise its functions and powers. Just now, the first Chief Executive of the Macao SAR, the principal officials of the Government of the Macao SAR, and the President of the Legislative Council, the President of the Court of Final Appeal, the Procurator-General, members of the Executive Council, members of the Legislative Council, judges and procurators of the Macao SAR have been sworn into office and started to perform their sacred duties.

The Central People's Government will give full support to you, the Chief Executive Mr Ho Hau Wah, and to the work of the SAR Government under your leadership. It is hoped that all of you will carry forward Macao compatriots' glorious tradition of loving China and loving Macao, implement the Basic Law of the Macao SAR to the letter, conscientiously fulfill your duties and make due contributions to the maintenance of the long-term stability and development of Macao, so as to live up to the ardent expectations of your fellow countrymen and Macao inhabitants and be worthy of the great trust placed in you by history.

Macao's return to China and the establishment of the Macao SAR Government mark the beginning of a new era for Macao when Macao people administer Macao and Macao enjoys a high degree of autonomy in accordance with the Basic Law of the Macao SAR under the guidance of the great concept of "one country, two systems" initiated by Mr. Deng Xiaoping. This is another historic achievement made by the Chinese people in their lofty cause of seeking a complete reunification of their motherland. All Chinese, at home and overseas, are elated about it.

At the threshold of the 21st century, a new chapter has been opened in Macao's history. I am sure that our Macao compatriots, who are now the masters of their own affairs in the big family of the motherland and have their destiny in their own hands, will create brilliant achievements with their hard work and wisdom. Macao will have an even more splendid future.

Thank you all.