Macao's development achievements over the past 20 years has demonstrated the vitality of "one country, two systems," a senior Chinese diplomat said here Wednesday.

[Photo: Nanfang Daily]

Addressing a photo exhibition to mark the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China at the United Nations (UN)'s Geneva headquarters, China's Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva Chen Xu said that the exhibition will give visitors a fresh look at Macao's dramatic changes and development.

Macao's economy has developed rapidly over the past 20 years, with its per capita GDP ranking amongst the highest in Asia and the world and becoming one of the fastest growing regions around the globe.

Over the last 20 years the people of Macao have elected five chief executives and six legislative assemblies, truly realizing the principle of "Macao people administering Macao," he said.

"Macao has maintained social stability," he said, noting that its average life expectancy has exceeded 80 years and that its primary healthcare system was commended by the World Health Organization as a model in the Asia Pacific region.

Chen also told the audience that Macao has increasingly opened up to the world and become a world tourism center, adding that in 2018, it received more than 35.8 million visitors.

"Within the framework of 'one country, two systems,' Macao has participated in the activities of 120 international organizations. It is also an active player in the Belt and Road Initiative and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area," the Chinese ambassador said.