MACAO — President Xi Jinping said the central government and the Chinese people are proud of the achievements and progress of Macao since its return to the motherland 20 years ago.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks after landing at Macao's airport on Dec 18.

"I am very happy to come to Macao again. In October, we held a grand celebration for the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The 20th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland is another major event," Xi told more than 100 Chinese and overseas reporters, who waited at the airport.

Xi extended warm congratulations and best wishes to the Macao compatriots on the occasion.

"It is worthwhile to sum up the experience and characteristics of Macao in faithfully implementing 'one country, two systems'," he said.

"We will join hands to draw the blueprint for Macao's future development," Xi said.

The President is expected to attend a gathering celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macao's return and the inauguration ceremony of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Dec 20. He will also inspect the Macao SAR.

"During my stay, I expect extensive exchanges with people from all walks of life in Macao over matters of common concern," he said.

At the airport, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan were greeted by Macao SAR Chief Executive Chui Sai On and his wife Fok Wai Fun. Two Macao pupils presented bouquets to them.

Hundreds of young people and members of the public welcomed the President, waving the national and SAR flags and flowers.

Ho Hau Wah, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Ho Iat Seng, the in-coming chief executive of the Macao SAR, also attended the airport welcome ceremony.