MACAO, Dec. 19 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said here on Friday evening that the prosperity of the Chinese mainland will provide tremendous opportunities and broad space for Macao's development.

Xi, who arrived here earlier on Friday for celebrations marking the 15th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland, told a welcoming dinner that he has every reason to feel confident, encouraged by Macao's progress and achievements.

"The more progress we make, the more enterprising we become," said the president.

One saying in Macao has it that a table is not big enough to put on a good show. But, said Xi, what Macao has achieved in the past 15 years since its return proves that with the right path, good policies, flexible moves and concerted efforts, "a great show can unfold even on a table."

"We should also be keenly aware of the new changes taking place both in and outside Macao, see things from a holistic perspective and work together to build on what has been achieved," said the president.

He pointed out that the mainland is currently in a crucial stage of endeavor to complete the building of a society of initial prosperity in all respects, comprehensively deepen reform and promote the rule of law.

"Opportunity waits for no one," said the president, calling on the Macao compatriots to take the best of the institutional advantages of "one country, two systems."

He also urged the Macao people to get on board the motherland's "train of reform and development," making solid efforts to achieve sustained and sound economic and social development in the region.