Group of Seven leaders on Sunday scolded China over human rights in Xinjiang, called for Hong Kong to keep a high degree of autonomy, and demanded a full and thorough investigation of the origins of the novel coronavirus in China. "We also call for a timely, transparent, expert-led, and science-based WHO-convened Phase 2 Covid-19 Origins study including, as recommended by the experts’ report, in China," the G7 said. Before the G7 criticism emerged, China pointedly cautioned G7 leaders that the days when "small" groups of countries decided the fate of the world were long gone. FORCED LABOURThe G7 said it was concerned about forced labour in global supply chains including in the agricultural, solar, and garment sectors. China denies all accusations of forced labour or abuse.

Source: The Star June 13, 2021 13:52 UTC