Czech MEP Markéta Gregorová stopped at Chinese border in ‘pseudo-scare tactics’

Czech Greens/EFA MEP Markéta Gregorová claims to have been detained in Beijing for 1.5 hours in what she called “pseudo-scare tactics” over the arrest of a Chinese national accused of spying in the Czech Republic. Gregorová said she was the only delegate out of 15 EU officials who faced such problems at border control upon landing in Beijing Capital Airport on Monday (26 October). A vocal critic of the Chinese Communist Party, Gregorová said she faced extensive questioning from Chinese officials despite presenting her diplomatic passport and an official invitation letter. Gregorová is the vice-chair of the European Parliament’s China group, and was travelling to the Chinese capital as part of a delegation from the parliament focusing on trade talks between Brussels and Beijing. The visit follows recent talks between EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and Chinese officials. Gregorová claims she was banned from using her phone during the ordeal and had her passport confiscated. To read this story, log in or subscribeEnjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a subscriber for as low as €1,75 per week.Read without limitsAlready a subscriber? Login