Tuesday 6 August 2002

"I must say that, based on the information you have provided, this case gives serious cause for concern with regard to the impartiality of the judiciary and law enforcement officials, the right to a fair trial, and the rule of law in Hong Kong, as well as with regard to the future of the 'one country, two systems' policy under which jurisdiction over the territory of Hong Kong and its population was restored to the government of China.

"The Lutheran World Federation held its Ninth Assembly in Hong Kong in 1997, only a few days after the handover. At that time we expressed considerable optimism for the future of Hong Kong under the 'one country, two systems' formula. This case, together with other recent developments in Hong Kong, must force any fair-minded and justice-loving person to conclude that that optimism was misplaced."

Yours sincerely,

Office for International Affairs and Human Rights
The Lutheran World Federation
Geneva