“I observe with continued concern how the Chinese authorities are treating Ai Weiwei. China always sets itself high standards where developing the rule of law is concerned. But this has to be translated into practice. Ai Weiwei’s treatment creates the renewed impression that Chinese citizens who are critical of official policy are made subject to arbitrary persecution.
Ai Weiwei is highly respected internationally for his art and his frank comments. I call upon the Chinese authorities to ensure that he can once again exercise his right to free speech and movement.”