The European Parliament has lifted restrictions on meetings with certain Chinese officials, suggesting a thaw in EU-China relations. This move follows earlier sanctions related to human rights issues in Xinjiang, and it indicates evolving geopolitical dynamics, even as restrictions remain on officials from Russia and Belarus.
The European Parliament has recently lifted restrictions on lawmakers’ meetings with select Chinese officials, indicating a potential improvement in EU-China relations. These restrictions were initially implemented in April 2023 as a response to sanctions imposed following accusations of human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang region.
Previously, guidelines prohibited invitations to Chinese officials and barred official missions to China and Iran while sanctions were enforced. These guidelines stipulated that any bilateral contacts with officials had to be reported and limited exclusively to certain office holders.
However, during a meeting with key lawmakers, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola suggested the removal of these restrictions. It is worth noting that similar limitations on meetings with officials from Russia and Belarus continue to be enforced. A spokesperson from the European Parliament highlighted that the previous guidelines were established during a specific context that has since evolved.
In conclusion, the European Parliament’s decision to ease restrictions on meetings with Chinese officials marks a significant shift in diplomatic strategy, suggesting a possible warming of relations amidst growing tensions with Washington. This change reflects changing geopolitical dynamics, although similar restrictions on Russia and Belarus remain unchanged, indicating a more nuanced diplomatic approach.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
