In a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions, China has imposed a lifetime entry ban on German far-right MEP Maximilian Krah, a prominent member of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The decisive action comes as a direct response to Mr Krah's sharp criticism of Beijing's policies in the Xinjiang region during a European Parliament debate.
The Chinese embassy in Berlin confirmed the punitive measure, stating it was a necessary response to what it called "malicious spread of disinformation and defamation" against China. Mr Krah had used the parliamentary platform to condemn Beijing's treatment of the Uyghur Muslim minority, a highly sensitive topic for the Chinese government.
European Parliament Condemns Chinese Retaliation
The move has sparked significant backlash within the European Parliament. A spokesperson for the institution declared that China's decision to blacklist an elected MEP represents "an unacceptable act of retaliation" that directly undermines parliamentary democracy and freedom of speech within the EU.
This incident highlights the growing tensions between Beijing and Western legislative bodies, particularly concerning human rights issues. The Chinese government maintains that its policies in Xinjiang are necessary for stability and counter-terrorism, while many Western critics describe them as oppressive and constituting serious human rights abuses.
Broader Implications for EU-China Relations
Analysts suggest this development could further strain the already complex relationship between the European Union and China. The targeting of an individual parliamentarian sets a concerning precedent that may have a chilling effect on future discourse regarding China within European political institutions.
Mr Krah, who serves as the AfD's lead candidate for the upcoming European elections, has become a focal point in the ongoing debate about how Western democracies should engage with China on human rights concerns while maintaining diplomatic and economic relations.
The Chinese embassy's statement emphasised that those who "insult and smear China must bear the consequences," signalling Beijing's increasingly assertive stance against foreign criticism of its domestic policies.
