Von Delane’s speech mentioned that the Hong Kong issue will implement the EU version of the Magnitsky Act

Instant International

Written by: Liang Kaiyi

2020-09-17 05:43

Last update date: 2020-09-17 05:43

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen read out his first message in office at the European Parliament on September 16.

She mentioned the issues of Hong Kong and Xinjiang, urged EU member states to allow an effective majority to vote on human rights and sanctions issues, and said that she plans to implement the European Magnitsky Law.

The picture shows the President of the European Commission von der Lein delivering his first speech at the European Parliament in Brussels on September 16, 2020.

(AP)

Von der Lein said that Europe needs to take a clear stand and act quickly in global affairs.

She described that the relationship between the EU and China is strategically important and challenging at the same time, and China is the EU’s negotiating partner, as well as an economic and institutional competitor.

Von der Lein said that the two sides have common interests on issues such as climate change, and China is also willing to initiate high-level dialogue, but the EU expects China to fulfill its commitments under the Paris Agreement and lead by example.

She said frankly that there is a tough job for European companies to enter the market fairly, trade and investment relations are still unequal, and the governance and social systems of the two sides are also completely different, emphasizing that the EU believes in democratic universal values ​​and individual rights.

When it comes to issues of democracy and human rights, Von der Lein said that although Europe is not without its own problems, it can be discussed publicly. Criticism and opposition are not only accepted, but also legally guaranteed.

Therefore, the EU must speak out on human rights violations, including those of Hong Kong and Uighurs.

She said that some member states said that the EU responded slowly, and therefore urged member states to vote on relevant issues with an effective majority instead of unanimously adopting decisions.

She announced that it would implement the "Magnitsky Law" that belongs to Europe, so that the EU has perfect tools to deal with human rights issues.

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EU Von der Lein