The article discusses the ongoing tension between the EU and China stemming from sanctions levied by both sides regarding human rights abuses in Xinjiang. The European Parliament is in discussions to lift sanctions on several MEPs blacklisted by China since 2021. While the EU aims to resume relations with China, some lawmakers remain critical of Beijing regardless of the lifting of restrictions. Experts suggest that easing sanctions could signal a shift in China’s political approach, potentially paving the way for a thaw in relations ahead of an upcoming summit in Beijing.
"It has always been the European Parliament's intention to have sanctions lifted and resume relations with China," the spokesperson added.
Miriam Lexmann, one of the sanctioned MEPs, told DW that the change would mean "practically nothing" for her work and vowed to continue her regular criticism of Beijing.
Experts say the removing of sanctions would mark a change in China's political tone, "fueling expectations of an EU-China detente ahead of a summit planned for July in Beijing."
To this day, the blacklist includes four sitting MEPs whom China accuses of 'maliciously spread[ing] lies and disinformation.'
Collection
[
|
...
]