Pompeo, leaving office, says China’s policies on Muslims, ethnic minorities in Xinjiang Province constitute ‘genocide’

WASHINGTON (AP) — On his way out the door, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has lashed out anew at China by declaring that its policies on Muslims and ethnic minorities in western Xinjiang region constitute a “genocide.” Pompeo made the determination on Tuesday just 24 hours before President-elect Joe Biden takes office. There was no immediate response from the incoming Biden team although several members have been sympathetic to such a designation in the past. Pompeo’s determination does not come with any immediate repercussions although it means the U.S. must take the designation into account in formulating policy toward China. China says its policies in Xinjiang aim only to promote economic and social development in the region.