Ho Teng Iat, president of the General Women's Association of Macao [Photo/Xinhua] 

The 13th National Women's Congress commenced on October 23 in Beijing, with around 1,800 delegates in attendance, joined by 90 specially invited representatives from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions (SARs).

In a media briefing later in the day, Ho Teng Iat, leader of the Macao delegation, conveyed the enthusiasm felt among the delegation members about being part of this pivotal congress. She remarked, "We are deeply moved by the Party and the country's attention and care towards women's affairs and female individuals. This will serve as a powerful impetus, motivating us to excel further in our future endeavors in advancing women's development."

The Macao delegation, comprised of 27 distinguished professionals and industry leaders from diverse sectors, represented outstanding women from various domains in Macao.

Ho, also president of the General Women's Association of Macao, acknowledged the comprehensive advancements in women's affairs in China over the past five years, praising the structured and evidence-based approach to development. She deemed plans of the All-China Women's Federation (ACWF) "viable and visionary."

Ho expressed gratitude for the substantial support given by ACWF to advance women's issues in Macao, particularly in talent cultivation and strengthening ties between Macao and the mainland.

With a history spanning over 70 years since its inception in 1950, the General Women's Association of Macao has consistently upheld a patriotic tradition of love for both the country and Macao, Ho pointed out. She added that the association has been actively involved in a range of social services, encompassing childcare, education, legal rights protection, family support, training, health, and assistance for the underprivileged. This active involvement has been instrumental in safeguarding women's rights.

Reflecting on the 24 years since Macao's return to China, Ho remarked, "Policies such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin have significantly broadened our development prospects, opening up more growth opportunities for Macao."

Upon their return, Ho emphasized that the delegation intends to relay the primary insights from the 13th National Women's Congress to women throughout Macao, turning these insights into actionable initiatives. "The goal is to empower women to take on unique roles in both familial and societal governance, thereby supporting the robust and enduring advancement of the 'one country, two systems' framework in Macao. This aligns with striving towards the two centenary goals and driving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," she concluded.