The European Union calls for the unconditional release of Jimmy Lai, sentenced to 20 years in prison in Hong Kong, considering the verdict politically motivated and harmful to press freedom.

The European Union has strongly condemned the 20-year prison sentence received by media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai, calling it politically motivated. The EU demands his immediate and unconditional release, emphasizing the importance of his age and health condition. Brussels warns that this conviction severely affects press freedom in Hong Kong and undermines the city's reputation as an international financial center.

In its statement, the EU highlighted that the prosecution of Lai and other journalists from Apple Daily contravenes the international commitments made by Hong Kong. Lai's conviction is the most severe application of the national security law imposed by Beijing, which has led to the arrest of over 100 individuals and the closure of several pro-democracy media institutions. The European Union has consistently criticized the effects of this legislation on fundamental freedoms and the rule of law in Hong Kong.