EU High Representative Federica Mogherini had on 30 June issued a strong call for his release in view of his deteriorating health: "The European Union expects the People's Republic of China to immediately grant him parole on humanitarian grounds and allow him to receive medical assistance at a place of his choosing in China or overseas," Mogherini said in a statement.

"At the same time," she added, "we expect China to remove all limitations on the movements of Mr Liu’s wife and family members. They must be able to meet and receive visits from whomever they desire, and be able to freely communicate with the outside world."