Beijing’s actions jeopardise respect for democratic debates and adherence to rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. The protection of rights and freedoms under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ must continue to be upheld in accordance with the Basic Law.

The high level of autonomy held by Hong Kong under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’, as laid down in the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, is the basis for social stability and economic prosperity in Hong Kong. All 27 EU member states, including Germany, are of this view.

I call on the Chinese Government to uphold the spirit of ‘one country, two systems’ and the rights and freedoms of the people in Hong Kong!