Macau Opinion | “Thank you, Mr. Ambassador”

Macau lived under Portuguese Administration for more than four centuries. Throughout that time Portugal´s presence in this territory assumed several different interpreters, nuances, footprints, attitudes and results towards the local community. One would lie if saying that such presence was perfect and sine macula. During this period there were a couple of episodes, individuals and actions that should have been avoided as one recognizes that they have not contributed to the country’s best image in the eyes of local citizens and community.

On the other hand, Macau has also been lucky enough to host several generations of the finest Portuguese people who throughout their years in the region worked for the benefit and for the success of Macau as a unique territory in the world. Ambassador Sereno is exactly one such countryman of mine who makes me proud to be Portuguese. I would dare say that during his five years’ term in Macau Mr. Sereno made a friend of every Portuguese who met him. His proximity, openness and kindness towards our community made us stronger, united and – why not – brought us and our country more credibility amongst local residents, entrepreneurs and authorities.

His proactiveness and willingness to do more and better every time helped Macau officials and community understand the new and modern country Portugal has become. Like a good British friend of mine always likes to say: “You guys always had the finest wines but the bottle labels were completely démodé…as soon as you guys changed the labels your wines started winning prizes all over the world”. Mr. Sereno himself embodies the attitude and turning point our the country took a few years ago with its modernisation and willingness to adapt, to innovate, and to enhance. Our Ambassador’s approach justifies why Portugal has become one of the trendiest tourism and business destinations in Europe and a success of economic recovery after a very complicated financial situation.

Mr. Sereno was therefore the best diplomat a Portuguese expat could expect….honestly, I really don’t know what a diplomat could do better in the service of his country and community. In Portuguese Sereno means peaceful and in his way Ambassador Sereno brought us the inner peace of being properly represented in the country/jurisdiction we have chosen to live.

Macau and the Portuguese community will miss him and never forget one of its finest. All the best to you and your family, Vítor!

Um Abraço,

Óscar

*Lawyer and regular contributor to MNA