European Parliament Lifts Restrictions on Lawmaker Meetings with China
The European Parliament has lifted restrictions on meetings with certain Chinese officials, suggesting improved EU-China relations. These measures were previously imposed following sanctions related to human rights abuses. The decision reflects a potential shift in the EU’s foreign policy amidst declining ties with Washington, while restrictions on Russia and Belarus remain unchanged.
The European Parliament has recently lifted restrictions that previously limited lawmakers from meeting certain Chinese officials, signaling a possible improvement in EU-China relations. These restrictions were initially imposed in April 2023 following a series of sanctions in 2021 related to human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang region. The guidelines prohibited invitations to Chinese parliamentarians and restricted official missions under specific conditions involving sanctioned members.
The original recommendations extended to both China and Iran, demanding that any bilateral engagements with officials be restricted and formally notified to parliamentary services. Nonetheless, this stringent approach shifted during a recent meeting, where European Parliament President Roberta Metsola suggested that these measures should be rescinded. It is essential to note that similar restrictions on official contacts with Russia and Belarus remain enforced.
A spokesperson for the European Parliament verified that the previous guidelines were established amidst a particular context and have since become non-binding. This step away from strict limitations reflects a broader strategy amid a declining alliance with Washington and may indicate a strategic opening in relationships with key global players.
The European Parliament’s decision to remove meeting restrictions with Chinese officials suggests a potential thaw in relations between the EU and China. This change follows a history of punitive measures concerning human rights issues. While restrictions on dealing with Russia and Belarus continue, the relaxing of guidelines regarding China underscores a strategic reassessment in the European Union’s foreign policy approach, particularly in light of its relations with the United States.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
