Media: EC blacklisted organizations associated with Huawei

European Commission imposed a strict ban on contacts with Huawei after corruption scandal

The European Commission (EC) has imposed a strict ban on meetings between its staff and representatives of organizations associated with the Chinese technology giant Huawei. The decision was made in light of an investigation into a possible corruption scheme in the European Parliament (EP), which may have operated in the interests of the Chinese company.

As reported by TUT.AZ, this information was published by the reputable newspaper Politico, citing its sources.

The press service of the EU's executive body categorically stated: "EC representatives will not meet with any lobbying groups or trade associations representing Huawei's interests, or acting on its behalf."

Brussels imposed the ban on "contacts and meetings" with Huawei officials back in March, almost immediately after Belgian prosecutors initiated an investigation into alleged corruption related to the Chinese corporation's activities in the Belgian capital. It is important to note that the ban extends to "any intermediaries acting on behalf of Huawei."

Belgian investigators began an investigation in March regarding a company that allegedly paid eight MEPs for an open letter in its support in 2021. In February of that year, three European Commissioners received a letter from eight MEPs claiming that geopolitical tensions between the EU and China should not hinder the development of 5G networks in Europe. This message, referred to in the case materials as "5G," is considered by investigators as key evidence of lobbying for the Chinese corporation's interests, despite the fact that Huawei is not directly mentioned in it.