EU expresses grave concerns but denies sanctions against China

On the 29th, the EU-European Union held a meeting of foreign ministers and issued a statement expressing "grave concern" over China's decision to introduce "national security legislation" to crack down on anti-government movements in Hong Kong.

In it, the EU criticized China's decision, saying that it was "contrary to its international obligations under the joint statement affirmed between the United Kingdom and China on the return of Hong Kong" and that "relations with China are based on mutual respect and trust, but this decision raises questions about China's willingness to fulfill its international obligations.

On the other hand, EU High Representative Borel said at a press conference after the meeting that the possibility of sanctions against China "is not the way to solve the problem with China," and revealed that only one out of 27 countries had mentioned sanctions at the meeting.

He also said, "There is no doubt that China is important, and we will continue our relationship with China based on our interests." He also indicated that, as the conflict between the United States and China intensifies, he will stand apart from the United States and cooperate with China on climate change, trade, and other issues.