China has reversed sanctions imposed on six serving British MPs and peers, following Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Beijing. The move marks a significant shift in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The sanctions were originally imposed in 2021 on nine UK citizens, including five Conservative MPs and two members of the House of Lords, for highlighting human rights violations against the Uyghur minority in Xinjiang. The affected individuals were banned from entering China.
The decision to lift the sanctions was confirmed by Chinese authorities, though no official reason was given. Observers suggest it may be a gesture of goodwill following Starmer's trip, which aimed to improve bilateral ties.
The affected politicians include prominent figures who had been vocal about China's treatment of Uyghurs. The lifting of sanctions is expected to ease tensions, though human rights groups have expressed concern over the lack of accountability.
