China rejects US lawmaker's Xinjiang 'genocide' claim as 'blatant lie' amid Starbucks store opening

Beijing responded to a US lawmaker's call for Starbucks to close its new Xinjiang stores, dismissing allegations of human rights abuses against Uyghurs as a 'blatant lie' and accusing US critics of political motives. The exchange reflects ongoing diplomatic friction over Xinjiang, with China defending its policies and foreign companies facing pressure from both sides. The incident underscores the reputational and operational risks for multinationals operating in contested regions.