Portugal repudiates the conviction of Au Kam San

The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong concern over the sentencing of Portuguese citizen Au Kam San to 12 years and six months in prison for state security crimes. This case marks the first prosecution under the National Security Law in Macau since its establishment. The trial was held behind closed doors, and the evidence against Au was not publicly disclosed. His international lawyer urged Portugal to demand his release, while the Chinese government does not recognize dual nationality. The situation has raised questions about the adherence to the 1987 Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration, which guarantees fundamental freedoms in Macau for 50 years post-sovereignty transfer.