Portugal and the European Union condemn the sentencing of a Portuguese citizen in Macau

The Portuguese government and the EU expressed strong disapproval of the 12.5-year prison sentence given to Au Kam San, a Portuguese citizen and former Macau legislator, for state security crimes. The conviction marks the first case under Macau's National Security Law since its establishment. The trial was held behind closed doors, raising concerns about transparency and the protection of fundamental freedoms in Macau. The EU criticized the ruling, emphasizing the need for autonomy and civil liberties as outlined in the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration. Au Kam San's international lawyer urged Portugal to demand his release from Macau, while it remains unclear if an appeal will be filed.