The success of Macao's "One Country, Two Systems" will "light up the path forward for Hong Kong," said Liu Xiaoming, China's top envoy to the UK, during a banquet at the Chinese embassy in London to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China.

"As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to China, we cannot help but feel deep regret at what is happening in Hong Kong," the ambassador said at the banquet on Monday. He contrasted Macao's experience with that of Hong Kong, and noted that, while Macao benefited from the non-interference policy, Hong Kong has suffered as a result of external interference.

"Macao is a beacon for safeguarding the principle of non-interference. We hope it will light up the path forward for Hong Kong," said Liu. "We hope it will enable people from all walks of life to see clearly the danger of external interference, so that they will join hands to oppose and resist such interference and help Hong Kong end violence, restore order and return to the track of prosperity and stability at an early date."

20 Years of Macao SAR

Graphics: Macao's economic takeoff over the past 20 years

Graphics: Substantial improvements seen in Macao residents' livelihoods

Gaming hub Macao diversifies its economy after return to China

"In the past 20 years, Macao, a coastal city of only 30 square kilometers, with a population of 670,000, has achieved remarkable success in its development," the ambassador said. 

He added: "With the backing of the mainland and with the world at its doorstep, Macao has taken full advantage of the 'Two Systems' and displayed to the world the vitality of a development path with Macao characteristics."

Liu said he had confidence in both Macao and Hong Kong – one being the "garden on the sea" and the other the "oriental pearl." He said he hoped the twin cities will once again take off side by side and write a new chapter in the success of "One Country, Two Systems".

On 20 December 1999, the Chinese Government resumed sovereignty over Macao and the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China was established.