BEIJING — Premier Li Keqiang on Dec 22 met with Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Ho Iat Seng, who is on a duty visit to Beijing.

Premier Li heard a report on Macao's current situation and the SAR government's work from Ho.

Vice-Premier Han Zheng attended the event.

During the meeting, Premier Li expressed the central government's acknowledgment of Ho and the SAR government's work regarding economic development, people's wellbeing, and COVID-19 control.

The central government will continue to fully and faithfully implement the policies of "one country, two systems," "the people of Macao administering Macao," and a high degree of autonomy for the region, Premier Li said.

Premier Li vowed to improve the region's systems and mechanisms for enforcing the Constitution and the Basic Law. The central government fully supports the chief executive in leading the SAR government to exercise law-based administration.

Premier Li voiced hope that the Macao SAR will take the initiative in coordinating with national development strategies as well as participating in and advancing the Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin.

Premier Li also said he hopes that Macao continues its efforts in curbing the epidemic and improving people's livelihood. Such efforts will lay a solid foundation for lasting prosperity and stability for the region, Premier Li said.

Ho expressed appreciation for the central government's concern and support, adding that Macao will maintain effective control over the epidemic, boost the economic recovery at a stable pace, and seize the opportunities of the country's development.