Macau (Por
Macau (Portuguese: 澳门), officially the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, is located west of the Pearl River Estuary in southern China and is one of China's two Special Administrative Regions (the other being Hong Kong). The following is a detailed introduction to Macau:
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I. Basic Information
· Area: Approximately 32.9 square kilometers (including the Macau Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane).
· Population: Approximately 680,000 (2023), primarily Chinese, with a minority of Portuguese and other ethnic groups.
· Languages: Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and Portuguese are the official languages, with Mandarin and English widely spoken.
· Currency: Macau Pataca (MOP), pegged to the Hong Kong dollar.
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II. Historical Background
· 16th century: The Portuguese gradually occupied Macau and developed it into a trading hub.
· December 20, 1999: Portuguese rule ended and Macau returned to China as a Special Administrative Region, implementing the "one country, two systems" policy.
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III. Politics and Law
· Chief Executive: Head of government, nominated by the Election Committee and appointed by the Central People's Government.
· Basic Law: A constitutional document guaranteeing a high degree of autonomy and preserving the existing capitalist system for 50 years.
· Judicial System: Based on the Portuguese civil law system, with the Court of Final Appeal in Macau.
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IV. Economic Characteristics
1. Gaming and Tourism:
· A world-renowned "gambling city," Macau leads the world in gaming revenue and contributes a significant portion of its economy.
· Landmarks include the Hotel Lisboa and the Venetian Macao.
2. Diversified Industries:
· Promoting the development of industries such as conventions and exhibitions, cultural creativity, and traditional Chinese medicine.
3. Free Port: Low taxes and free capital flow attract foreign investment.
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V. Culture and Tourism
· World Heritage Sites:
· Historic Center of Macau: Contains over 20 buildings embracing a blend of Chinese and Western elements, including the Ruins of St. Paul's, A-Ma Temple, and Senado Square. · Festivals:
· Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, International Fireworks Display, Grand Prix.
· Cuisine:
· Fusion cuisine, including Portuguese egg tarts, pork chop buns, crab congee, and cod.
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VI. Society and Life
· Education: 15 years of free compulsory education, with numerous universities (such as the University of Macau).
· Healthcare: Public and private systems coexist, with residents receiving free basic healthcare.
· Transportation: Mainly light rail, buses, and taxis. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge connects Hong Kong and Zhuhai.
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VII. International Status
· Link between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries: Serves as the Permanent Secretariat of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation (Macao).
· UNESCO Creative City: Designated a "City of Gastronomy" in 2017.
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VIII. Famous Sights
1. Ruins of St. Paul's: The remains of St. Paul's Church, a symbol of Macao. 2. Macau Tower: 338 meters high, offering bungee jumping.
3. Cotai: An integrated resort integrating shopping, entertainment, and gaming.
4. Guanye Street: Traditional souvenirs and food court.
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IX. Challenges and the Future
· Economic Transformation: Reducing reliance on the gaming industry and developing diversified industries.
· Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area: Integrating into regional cooperation and enhancing international competitiveness.
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