On Monday, the European Union issued a statement condemning the imprisonment of Jimmy Lai, a prominent critic of the Chinese government and a pro-democracy advocate in Hong Kong. The EU's foreign affairs department underscored that the politically motivated prosecution of Lai and other former leaders and journalists of Apple Daily damages Hong Kong's international standing. The statement comes in the wake of Lai being sentenced to 20 years in prison on three charges related to national security.

Lai's trial has attracted significant attention as it has become one of Hong Kong's most high-profile cases associated with the national security law implemented by China. The prosecution of Lai is viewed by many as emblematic of the broader crackdown on dissent and freedom of the press in Hong Kong, raising serious concerns about the erosion of rights and freedoms in the region. As the EU calls for Lai's release, it reflects the growing international scrutiny of China's actions in Hong Kong and the implications for civil liberties.

The situation surrounding Jimmy Lai highlights the challenges faced by pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, where the government's crackdown has intensified in recent years. The EU's condemnation not only serves as a call to action for the release of Lai but also signals the need for the international community to address the ongoing issues of human rights violations and the suppression of democratic freedoms in Hong Kong. This case could have significant repercussions on Hong Kong's relationship with Western nations and may further complicate diplomatic proceedings in the region.