Beijing’s point man on Macau affairs begins 6-day visit to city

Beijing’s point man on Macau affairs has embarked on a six-day fact-finding trip to the city and has acknowledged the “good start” made by the new administration.

Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office (HKMAO), arrived in the city on Thursday afternoon for a visit that runs until Tuesday.

“Upon his arrival, Xia headed to the Santa Sancha Palace to meet Chief Executive Sam Hou-fai as well as officials from the executive, legislative and judiciary branches,” a brief statement issued by the office said, referring to the Macau leader’s official residence.

The Macau government said that Xia had conveyed President Xi Jinping greetings and mentioned the leader’s interest in the well-being of residents, as well as Beijing’s affirmation of the good start made by the new administration.

“Xia also has an in-depth understanding of Macau’s current development situation and its future plans on all aspects, as well as various policies and work of the government,” it said.

Xia last visited Macau in May 2024 for seven days. The latest inspection tour marked his first visit since Sam’s administration assumed office in December last year.