Lisbon, Portugal - December 11, 2024 Storyline: The implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" policy in the Macao Special Administrative Region is undoubtedly a great success, making the region a bond linking China and the Portuguese-speaking world, said an expert in international relations. During an interview with the China Media Group (CMG), Carmen Mendes, President of the Macao Scientific and Cultural Center, shared her personal account of studying, working, and living in Macao, highlighting her experiences under the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. Mendes' journey to Macao began in early 1999, when she embarked on a research project for her doctorate, focusing on the region's transition period. Noting Macao's remarkable achievements in various sectors such as politics, economy and social development over the past 25 years, Mendes believes the "One Country, Two Systems" policy is the best institutional arrangement for maintaining long-term prosperity and stability. Mendes was deeply impressed by the seamless integration of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, as well as the profound and enduring friendship between the peoples of the two countries This year marks the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. Shotlist: Lisbon, Portugal - Dec 11, 2024: 1. Various of sign of Macao Scientific and Cultural Center, logo; 2. Entrance to building; 3. Interview in progress; 4. SOUNDBITE (Portuguese) Carmen Mendes, president, Macao Scientific and Cultural Center (ending with shots 5-6): "I first went to Macao in April 1999 and again in August of the same year, which was the year of Macao's transfer and transition. Also in that year I received my PhD at the University of London, and my research was about the transition period of Macao. So, I was very interested in going to Macao in person. Macao was still very traditional back then. The last time I was there is last week, and I'm familiar with the region because I go there so often. But every time I visit, I find the changes quite striking there. Macao's development is truly extraordinary. FILE: Macao, China - Date Unknown: 5. Aerial shot of city view Macao, China - Recent: 6. Aerial shot of Ruins of St. Paul; FILE: Macao, China - Date Unknown: 7. Aerial shot of city view; Lisbon, Portugal - Dec 11, 2024: 8. SOUNDBITE (Portuguese) Carmen Mendes, president, Macao Scientific and Cultural Center (ending with shots 9-11): "The practice of 'One Country, Two Systems' policy in Macao is undoubtedly a huge success. Its creativity and achievements are obvious to all. Macao has been able to maintain its own governance system and characteristics. And it has also played an important role in China's foreign policy, serving as a link between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. Macao, China - Recent: 9. Chinese national flag, regional flag of Macao SAR; 10. Golden Lotus statue; FILE: Macao, China - 2024: 11. Aerial shot of commercial street, buildings; 12. Various of fountain, tourists; 13. Decoration reading "MACAO"; Lisbon, Portugal - Dec 11, 2024: 14. SOUNDBITE (Portuguese) Carmen Mendes, president, Macao Scientific and Cultural Center (partially overlaid with shot 15-11): "I really like everything about Macao. Macao is my favorite place to live, and it always makes me feel nostalgic. I feel very close to Macao every time I go there. I just returned from Macao, where the fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures and the deep friendship between our peoples is evident in everyday life. Macao cuisine is unique. It's difficult to find outside of the region. The most representative dish is 'Minchee,' which is almost a household name. Everyone would like to try it. In the homes of Macao families in Lisbon, a tea party without Minchee is unthinkable. [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] FILE: Macao, China - Date Unknown: 15. Aerial shots of cityscape; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE Macao, China - Recent: 16. Aerial shots of Chinese national flags, regional flags of Macao SAR, traffic. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]