The Foreign Secretary has called Carrie Lam to discuss his concerns about the situation in Hong Kong, and the protests there.

The Foreign Secretary underlined the strength of the relationship between the UK and Hong Kong, noting our support for Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy as provided for in the Joint Declaration and our commitment to the principle of ‘One country, Two systems’.

The Foreign Secretary condemned violent acts by all sides but emphasised the right to peaceful protest, noting that hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong people had chosen this route to express their views. He underlined that the violence should not cloud the lawful actions of the majority.

The Foreign Secretary emphasised the need to find a way forward through meaningful political dialogue, and a fully independent investigation into recent events as a way to build trust.

The Prime Minister received a call of congratulations from the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of continuing to work together to strengthen our economic partnership and to cooperate on shared security matters, including to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf. The Prime Minister emphasised the need for a political solution to the conflict in Yemen.

The Prime Minister also reiterated the UK’s support for the UAE in hosting the Dubai Expo next year.

The Prime Minister received a congratulatory call from Poland’s Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki.

The leaders agreed to continue to strengthen the deep relationship between the UK and Poland. On security matters, they discussed the current tensions in the Persian Gulf, Russia’s destabilising activity, and the work we do together through NATO.

On Brexit, the Prime Minister outlined that we would prefer to leave with a deal, and that he will approach negotiations with the EU with great energy and in the spirit of friendship. But it would require the EU to change its stance to remove the anti-democratic backstop. He emphasised that the UK will be leaving the EU on 31 October whatever the circumstances and preparations were taking place to do so.

He also reiterated our firm commitment that the rights and freedoms of the 3.2 million EU nationals in the UK will be protected in all scenarios – including valued Polish nationals.