Work has started on a 30,000-square-meter public square, the largest in China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).

The square to the south of the Nam Van lake in the Macao Peninsular will combine with the neighboring Macao Tower, ranking the 10th in the world with a height of 338 meters, to lure sightseeing and leisure-seeking visitors as a new seashore mecca.

It will also be the site for gala celebrations, outdoor concerts and other large activities when the square takes shape inan anticipated 12 months, said Ao Man Long, secretary for transport and public works.

Cost for the project, which includes a square, grassland and a platform stretching to the Nam Van lake, is estimated at 34.8 million patacas (US$ 4.35 million).

( Xinhua News Agency January 28, 2002)