Overview
- China has removed sanctions imposed in 2021 on active MEPs and the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights, allowing for renewed dialogue.
- Sanctions remain in place for former MEPs, such as Reinhard Bütikofer, and certain EU bodies, reflecting a partial easing of restrictions.
- The EU maintains its sanctions on Chinese officials over alleged human rights abuses, including those against the Uighur minority in Xinjiang.
- EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized the complexity of EU-China relations and the importance of dialogue, while others urged caution against overinterpreting the move.
- The Comprehensive Agreement on Investment between the EU and China remains stalled, with human rights concerns continuing to be a major obstacle to progress.