The European Union (EU) intends to propose annual summit meetings with China as a contribution to consolidating the autonomy of Hong Kong and Macau, according to a statement quoted by the Portuguese national news agency Lusa. The proposal is said to be contained in a document outlining bilateral relations between the EU and China over the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. The statement quoted by Lusa says that the EU regards Hong Kong and Macau as gateways to other regions on the mainland, adding that the European grouping should develop its relations with the two territories further. Unlike Hong Kong, Macau maintains a trade and co-operation pact with the EU. The statement quoted by Lusa says the EU should ensure its co-operation agreement with Macau remained fully valid beyond the enclave's handover in December.
