Xi Jinping speaks at a ceremony to inaugurate the fifth-term govt of Macau Special Administrative Region in Macau, China on Friday. Jason Lee/ Reuters

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday Macau’s patriotism was the most important reason for the success of its “one country, two systems” formula of governance, in remarks appearing to draw a contrast with neighbouring Hong Kong.

Xi praised the gambling hub for being one of the safest cities in the world, where people “rationally” express different views. Xi was attending celebrations to mark Macau’s 20th anniversary of its handover to China. Earlier he swore in the new Macau administration led by Ho Iat-Seng.

Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan, new Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng and his wife Zheng Suzhen arrive for a ceremony in Macau.

In Hong Kong, Xi is facing his biggest political challenge yet after more than six months of pro-democracy protests.

Reuters