President Biden Considers Diplomatic Boycott of Beijing 2022
19th November 2021
The US President has said he is weighing up the options as the Winter Olympics approaches. It follows accusations of poor records on human rights for China. NEW
A diplomatic boycott would mean that no US officials are sent to attend the games.
The athletes and the backroom staff would be allowed to participate.
A diplomatic boycott “is something we are considering,” President Biden said ahead of talks with the Mexico President, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and the Canada Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.
On Monday Mr Biden held his first direct talks with China’s Xi Jinping.
The White House said the Winter Olympics was not discussed during the three-hour virtual meeting on Monday.
The Beijing Games are due to start on February 4th 2022.
Nancy Pelosi, the most senior Democrat in Congress, has already called for a boycott.
The US has accused China of genocide against a Muslim minority group which lives in the autonomous region of Xinjiang, the Uighurs.
There are also criticisms over the repression of freedom and democracy in Hong Kong.
China denies the allegations.
It comes as concerns grow for the Chinese tennis player, Peng Shuai.
She made allegation of sexual assault against former vice-premier, Zhang Gaoli.
She was not heard from, and now Chinese state media outlets have republished what is claimed to be an email from Peng saying she is “not missing, nor am I unsafe”
Some are questioning its validity including the multiple grand slam winner, Serena Williams.
I am devastated and shocked to hear about the news of my peer, Peng Shuai. I hope she is safe and found as soon as possible. This must be investigated and we must not stay silent. Sending love to her and her family during this incredibly difficult time. #whereispengshuai pic.twitter.com/GZG3zLTSC6
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) November 18, 2021
Image © PlanetSKI
