Ahead of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hadja Lahbib’s visit to China this week, the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) is advocating for the inclusion of Tibet in the discussions. This marks the first high-level mission since 2019.

De Croo, set to renew high-level ties in Beijing from Jan 11 to 12, and Lahbib, fostering economic connections in Shanghai from Jan 10, will join forces for official engagements with key Chinese officials. The focus will be on all aspects of Sino-Belgian relationships.

Following revelations of honorary Flemish MP Frank Creyelman's alleged role as a Chinese spy, discussions on China’s political interference are expected. Vincent Metten, EU Policy Director of ICT, emphasizes the link between Chinese interference and repression of Tibetan and Uyghur diasporas. Belgium, home to a significant Tibetan community, is urged to protect its citizens.

ICT highlights China’s determination to erase Tibetan identity, calling on Belgium, holding the EU Council presidency, to hold China accountable for violations of international law. Prime Minister De Croo is urged to push for negotiations with the Dalai Lama to resolve the Tibet conflict, aligning with EU policy of balancing partnership, competition, and vigilance in the relationship with China.