Chinese President Xi Jinping met with international students in Macao on Wednesday, during his visit to the city for the 20th anniversary of its return to China.

Most of the students come from Portuguese-speaking countries, and they have learned to speak Chinese while studying in Macao.

In an interview with the Chinese media, they said that the 'Belt and Road' initiative has brought hope to young people for a brighter future.

Macao has become a major hub for China to connect Portuguese-speaking countries to its ambitious 'Belt and Road' initiative, according to Chinese officials.

Macao was colonized by Portugal in 1887, before being returned to China on December 20, 1999.