The release of human rights lawyer Wang Quanzhang on 5 April, at the end of his four and half year’s conviction, is a positive development. Mr Wang was detained in connection with his work as a human rights lawyer. The European Union expects that Mr Wang's release will be unconditional, with particular regard to his freedom of movement and to establish residence, including the possibility to reunite with his family.

The European Union considers that his rights under China's legislation and international commitments were not respected during trial and detention. Reports about Mr Wang being subject to serious mistreatment and torture must be thoroughly investigated.

The European Union calls for the unconditional release and rehabilitation of all those currently imprisoned or under restriction of movement in China on political grounds, in line with China's international commitments.

The European Union will continue to engage with China on human rights issues.