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China

Macao's Return to China: A Landmark Event and Its Implications for the Region and the US

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a historic move, Macao, the first place in Asia to be colonized by a European power 442 years ago, has been transferred to China by Portugal, marking the end of colonialism in the region. The transfer, which was expected to take place in 1999, occurred earlier than anticipated, with Beijing promising to allow Macao to retain its capitalist system for 50 years. The event has significant implications for the region, particularly for Taiwan, which remains a sensitive issue in US-China relations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Macao, a 6-square-mile enclave, has been transferred to China, marking the end of colonialism in the region.
  • Most of Macao's nearly 500,000 people (95% of them ethnic Chinese) welcome the change.
  • Beijing has promised to allow Macao to retain its capitalist system for 50 years.
  • The transfer is a significant step in China's efforts to consolidate sovereignty over all areas it regards as part of China.
  • The US must stay closely attuned to the tense relations between China and Taiwan, particularly with the upcoming presidential election in March.
  • The Clinton administration has admonished President Lee of Taiwan to be more circumspect in characterizing Taiwan's status.
  • The three parties involved (US, China, and Taiwan) need to lower the tone of their rhetoric to ease tensions and find a peaceful resolution.

Statistics:

  • 442 years: the length of time Macao was under European colonial rule.
  • 1997: the year Hong Kong was returned to China.
  • 95%: the percentage of Macao's population that is ethnic Chinese.
  • 6 square miles: the size of Macao, an enclave comprising a peninsula and two small islands.
  • 50 years: the duration for which China has pledged to allow Macao to retain its capitalist system.

Sources:

  • "A Landmark Event: Macao's Return to China" - no specific source date
  • "U.S. policy-makers must stay closely attuned to the tense relations between the mainland and Taiwan" - no specific source date
  • US policy-makers - no specific source date

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