Linkages

The idea that Macau could build on its history and social character to act as a link between China and the outside world – or parts of it – is not new. Whether the ‘world’ one had in mind was the Portuguese-speaking countries, the Latin countries or, even more generally, Europe would change the geographical scope of the aspiration, but not the main thrust of it.
Macau, it is believed, has the potential and also the ability to link different places and peoples, to serve as a meeting place, a bridge, or, as it has become more popular recently, a platform where others can meet to get jobs done for mutual benefit. The world could come to see Macau as the catalyzer, the matchmaker, the facilitator, the place to find the services and support needed to broker new ventures.
This week, Macau is hosting an event that seems to fit that model. It is a forum where Mainland companies will meet officials and firms from other countries, namely from Portuguese-speaking and Latin American countries, to discuss matters related to infrastructure, construction and financing. It will bring together, it was announced, more than one thousand people from the public and private realms of over 40 countries. The government of Portugal alone sends two of its members.
Infrastructure finance around the world is a subject of obvious interest for China and a cornerstone of several of its international initiatives. The event touches upon activities of strategic importance and targets countries with which Macau can claim some cultural and historical proximity. However, somewhat surprisingly, the event seems to attract less public attention than it might deserve.
Its visibility rose following a press conference mid-May, just two weeks before the set date. Yet, it was scheduled one year in advance. People may be surprised to know that this is the eighth event of this type and that almost all of the previous ones also happened in Macau. One is scheduled for next year, also to take place here. So, is Macau fulfilling its promise and most of us are just unaware?
It would be interesting and certainly illuminating to know more about the results achieved by these events. Namely, the specific outcomes and benefits for the participants arising from any agreements reached or actions decided there, as well as the contribution of local organisations to their accomplishment.