China: G7 criticism of human rights a ‘political manipulation’

China on Monday slammed a communiqué from G7 leaders urging Beijing to respect human rights in the Xinjiang region, calling the criticisms “political manipulation.” Beijing also is downplaying G7 complaints about its economic practices, a key topic of discussion during last week’s leaders summit. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, G7 leaders said they would call on China to “respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, especially in relation to Xinjiang.” The province has been the subject of controversy in...