Intel: How China just struck back at Turkey over its criticism of Uighur Muslims

Al-Monitor Staff

Mar 1, 2019

Ethnic Uighur demonstrators hold East Turkestan and Turkish flags during a demonstration against China in Istanbul, Turkey, February 23, 2019. REUTERS/Umit Bektas - RC1BEF41E5B0 — Ethnic Uighur demonstrators hold East Turkestan and Turkish flags during a demonstration against China in Istanbul, Turkey, Feb. 23, 2019. — REUTERS/Umit Bektas

Beijing’s sudden decision to temporarily close its consulate in Izmir is widely seen as a warning to Turkey to back off its criticism of China’s treatment of its Muslim minority.

Why it matters: Izmir is poised to be the last port on China’s One Belt, One Road initiative, serving as a bridge between Asia and Europe. The consulate’s closure, announced by the Chinese Embassy in Turkey late Thursday, immediately drew strong reaction from the Aegean province’s business circles.