Brussels (AsiaNews) – The situation of fundamental human rights, especially religious freedom, "is extremely difficult in the People's Republic of China". The country "must significantly increase" its credibility and transparency surrounding the issue and should start to consider religious freedom as a "partner and not a social threat".

This was the thrust of a report about ties between the European Union and China, presented by the Dutch democrat-independent MEP, Bastian Belder, in a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the European Parliament that took place in Brussels on 3 May.

The report, drafted to mark 30 years of ties between Beijing and the EU put China's economic situation and human rights record, including freedom of worship, under the spotlight.

On behalf of the European People's Party group, the Honourable Antonio Tajani intervened in the general discussion. He focused on the theme of freedom of worship and recalled the appointment of the bishop of Wuhu that took place – a few hours before the meeting – without the pope's permission. The head of the Forza Italia delegation said: "It is unacceptable that a bishop is appointed by a state without the Vatican being able to raise any objections about it, just as it is unthinkable that only denominations authorised by the state are allowed to exist and there is no freedom to express dissent."

He continued: "On the other hand, Beijing should consider religious freedom not as an enemy but as a strategic partner and above all from the perspective of potential for energetic action regarding the social rights of China's residents."

Pasqualina Napoletano of the Socialist group was of the same view. She stressed the need for "more attention to human rights and constant monitoring with respect to religious freedom, especially of the situation of Christians but above all, of the situation in Tibet, a region the Chinese government grants no autonomy to, as well as not accepting the Dalai Lama."