The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, on behalf of the EU, called for dialogue in Hong Kong on Wednesday 2 October, saying that the escalation of violence and continued unrest, including the use of live ammunition, were "deeply troubling".
On Tuesday 1 October, despite the ban on demonstrations, hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets to defy China, which was celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic (see EUROPE 12339/12). That day saw the worst violence since the demonstrations began almost four months ago.
"The European Union maintains its position that restraint, de-escalation and dialogue are the only way forward", she stressed in a statement on behalf of the Twenty-Eight. According to the High Representative, it is clear that this is "needed now more than ever" and that these elements offer the "only basis for a lasting solution".
Ms Mogherini stressed the need to work to restore trust between the government and the public, considering the dialogue process recently launched by the authorities to be a "welcoming first step in this regard".
At the same time, fundamental freedoms, including the right of assembly, must continue to be respected and the right to peaceful demonstrations guaranteed, the High Representative said. She recalled that these rights must be exercised peacefully, that any violence is unacceptable and that any action by law enforcement agencies must be strictly proportionate.
"The EU attaches great importance to Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy, which must be preserved in accordance with the Basic Law and international commitments" the High Representative also highlighted, explaining that maintaining respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and the independence of the judiciary remained essential for the development of Hong Kong. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)