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US to sanction more Chinese officials: sources
Sources say the United States is preparing to slap at least a dozen Chinese officials with a new round of sanctions, keeping the pressure on China in recent weeks in the office of President Donald Trump. Sources say it is a response to Beijing’s disqualification of opposition politicians elected in Hong Kong last month. Now, up to 14 people will be subject to asset freezes and financial sanctions, both in mainland China and Hong Kong. Those affected will include members of the Communist Party of China, as well as Chinese parliament officials. The White House and the State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Last month, four members of the Hong Kong legislator’s opposition were expelled after the Chinese parliament gave city authorities new powers. to curb dissent. A measure that caused massive resignations of legislators in favor of democracy. It also led countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Great Britain to accuse Beijing of further undermining democracy and human rights in the city. Washington has already sanctioned Hong Kong CEO Carrie Lam, as well as current and former police chiefs. President-elect Joe Biden has vowed to take a tougher line with China on human rights, so his response to the crackdown in Hong Kong could be early proof of that determination.
