The spokesperson of the European External Action Service, Maja Kocijancic, called for confidence-building measures to be taken in Hong Kong on Tuesday 1 October.
On 1 October, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, pro-democracy activists announced a "Day of Sorrow", despite the fact that demonstrations had been banned. One activist was wounded by live ammunition.
"The EU continues to insist that dialogue, appeasement and restraint are the only way forward", Ms Kocijancic told the media. And while a dialogue between 150 Hong Kong residents and Executive Director Carrie Lam was held on 26 September, "further efforts are needed to restore confidence".
The spokesperson also insisted on maintaining the right to assemble and demonstrate peacefully. "A high degree of autonomy, respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and the independence of the judiciary remain essential for Hong Kong's development", she added, recalling the EU's support for the principle of "one country, two systems".
Demonstrations began four months ago, to demand the withdrawal of a law facilitating extradition to mainland China. Since then, the EU has consistently called for calm and for dialogue (see EUROPE 12274/21). (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)