Chinese tech giant Huawei suspected of bribing European politicians

According to Belgian authorities, there are indications that Huawei approached employees of Members of the European Parliament or other influential positions within European institutions. These individuals allegedly received gifts or other services in exchange for favorable information or political support. It is said to be a structured form of influence potentially ongoing for some time.

An aide to an Italian MEP is currently the subject of an extradition request. Belgian authorities want to interrogate this person about possible payments and contacts with Huawei representatives. In total, several parliamentary staffers are reportedly involved, but official charges have not yet been announced.

During the searches in Brussels, offices and workspaces linked to the European institutions were examined. Private residences were also reportedly searched. The Belgian federal police and the prosecution collaborated with other European law enforcement agencies. Notably, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) is also involved in the investigation, underscoring the seriousness of the matter.

The suspicions include Tomáš Zdechovský, a Czech Member of the European Parliament, and his former assistant. Additionally, an aide to the Italian MEP Andrea Cozzolino is also reportedly under investigation. Cozzolino was previously linked to the so-called Qatargate scandal, which centered on foreign influence and bribery.

Currently, efforts are being made to map out the exact extent of the network. The investigation focuses on contacts between Huawei and individuals who had access to internal information or decision-making within EU institutions.

Many EU countries have consciously decided over recent years not to allow Huawei technology in their sensitive communication infrastructure. There are fears that the Chinese government could gain access to confidential data, such as emails and documents from government services, through Huawei. As a result, restrictions have been imposed in countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands.