Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji said on the afternoon of December 20 that Macao will enjoy long-term stability, development and prosperity with the full support of the central government.

Addressing a reception marking the return of Macao in the Great Hall of the People, Zhu said that 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.

The premier proudly proclaimed that "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."

He said that with the support of the great motherland, Macao will surely continue to overcome any difficulties it encounters.

He re-emphasized that the return of Macao will "facilitate the final solution of the Taiwan question, and the complete reunification of China."