Associate Professor Francisco Leandro Discusses the Macao SAR’s Role as a Bridge Between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries

18 December 2024 | Associate Professor Francisco Leandro from the Department of Government and Public Administration, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Macau (DGPA/FSS/UM), was recently interviewed by CGTN during President Xi Jinping’s visit to the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR). The interview, conducted by CGTN anchor Hou Na (侯娜), focused on the cultural and economic significance of the MSAR as a strategic platform linking China with Portuguese-speaking countries (PSCs).

In the interview, Associate Professor Leandro emphasized the MSAR’s unique position as an “open door” that fosters people-to-people relations, which he described as the foundation of the most fruitful international cooperation. He highlighted how the MSAR’s historical and cultural ties with Portuguese-speaking countries enable it to serve as a vital conduit for cultural exchange and economic collaboration.

Professor Leandro elaborated on the MSAR’s role within the Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He pointed out that all Portuguese-speaking countries have signed partnership agreements with China, and the majority have also signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) under the BRI framework. This extensive network of agreements underscores the strategic importance of the MSAR in facilitating these international partnerships. Furthermore, Professor Leandro discussed the significance of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Forum Macau), an institution dedicated to promoting economic cooperation between the MSAR and Portuguese-speaking countries. He noted that Forum Macau is the only permanent institution where China and PSCs maintain continuous contact, making it an essential mechanism for fostering economic ties and facilitating collaborative projects.

The interview also touched upon the broader implications of the MSAR’s role in the context of China’s global initiatives. Professor Leandro highlighted how the MSAR’s strategic location and cultural heritage make it an ideal platform for advancing China’s diplomatic and economic objectives with Portuguese-speaking countries. He stressed the importance of leveraging these unique attributes in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.

In conclusion, Associate Professor Francisco Leandro’s insights during the CGTN interview underscored the pivotal role of the MSAR in bridging China and Portuguese-speaking countries. His remarks highlighted the region’s potential to facilitate deeper cultural and economic ties, contributing to the broader goals of the Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative. As the MSAR continues to develop its role as a strategic platform, it stands to play an increasingly significant part in fostering international cooperation and development.

The CGTN interview is available in this URL: https://www.cgtn.com/tv/replay?id=CBfAbIA (14:10 – 1840)