The entire nation is satisfied with the work done by the Preparatory Committee for the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), said Li Peng, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.

At a banquet held here tonight for members of the committee, Lisaid that the committee has done much fruitful work in accordance with the Basic Law of the Macao SAR and the decisions of the NPC and its standing committee.

"Macao compatriots, the NPC and its standing committee, and theentire nation are all satisfied with their work," he said.

He said the members of the Preparatory Committee have played a very important role in achieving the successful establishment of the Macao SAR and Macao's smooth power handover.

Li pointed out that the establishment of the Macao SAR was a new beginning for carrying out the policies of "one country, two systems," "Macao people governing Macao," and "high degree of autonomy."

He expressed his hope that the committee members will continue to observe these policies and the Basic Law in order to contribute more to Macao's stability, development and brighter future.

Li concluded that the smooth return of Hong Kong and Macao heralds a bright future for China's realization of overall national reunification.