The European Union urged China on Friday to " respect the autonomy of Hong Kong " in a statement adopted by its 27 member states after Beijing announced a bill to safeguard national security in Hong Kong.
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" The European Union attaches great importance to the preservation of the high degree of autonomy of Hong Kong, in accordance with fundamental law and with international commitments ", insisted the head of the European diplomacy Josep Borrell in this declaration on behalf of the 27 " The European Union has every interest in ensuring that Hong Kong's stability and prosperity continue on the principle of" one country, two systems "," he added.
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The Europeans will " closely follow the development of the situation ". They believe that " democratic debate, consultation with key stakeholders and respect for protected rights and freedoms in Hong Kong would be the best way to pass national security legislation, " as provided for by the government. Article 23 of the Basic Law, while preserving the autonomy of Hong Kong and the principle "one country, two systems".