During the meeting last Friday, Premier Li Qiang, with Xi present, handed Sam an official decree from the State Council, formalizing his role as Macao SAR's sixth chief executive.
Xi offered his congratulations, praising Sam's loyalty to China and Macao, his commitment to duty, and his contributions to Macao's stability and growth during his time as president of Macao's Court of Final Appeal.
"Your election with overwhelming support shows the high regard Macao society has for you. The central government fully recognizes this and places its trust in you," Xi said.
Looking back on the 25 years since Macao's return, Xi reaffirmed the central government's commitment to fully implementing the "one country, two systems" principle, allowing Macao to enjoy a high level of autonomy.
Xi encouraged Sam to lead the new SAR government by uniting Macao's community and advancing "one country, two systems" in ways unique to Macao.
Expressing his gratitude, Sam pledged to carry out the "one country, two systems" principle under the guidance of Xi and the central government, leading Macao toward steady progress.
Senior officials, including Li Qiang, Cai Qi, and Ding Xuexiang, were also in attendance.
