28

Belgian police launched raids across several locations as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the European Parliament. Prosecutors revealed that the suspected wrongdoing was disguised as commercial lobbying, leading to the detention of multiple individuals for questioning. The investigation, which includes authorities in Belgium, Portugal, and France, has sparked concerns about foreign influence, with links to Huawei’s lobbying efforts in Brussels coming to the forefront. Officials are investigating potential bribery, document forgery, and money laundering as part of a broader criminal organization.

The Investigation and Scope of the Raids

On Thursday, Belgian authorities carried out 21 separate searches across various locations, including Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia. The operation targeted suspected individuals involved in corrupt practices, particularly focusing on the misuse of lobbying activities within the European Parliament. Prosecutors confirmed that the raids are part of an ongoing probe into corruption spanning from 2021 to the present.

The case centers on allegations that lobbyists, including those allegedly linked to Huawei, bribed current and former Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to influence policy decisions in favor of the company’s interests. While no MEPs have been directly implicated so far, the investigation remains active.

According to Belgian prosecutors, the corruption activities were carried out discreetly, often through lavish gifts, including meals, travel, and tickets to football matches. The alleged misconduct was disguised as legitimate lobbying, making it difficult for investigators to identify the illegal activities at first.

Huawei’s Involvement in the Investigation

The Belgian newspaper Le Soir reported that Huawei, the Chinese telecommunications giant, has been a focal point of the investigation. According to sources close to the case, Huawei’s lobbying efforts in Brussels since 2021 may have played a significant role in the alleged corruption.

In response to the allegations, Huawei issued a statement expressing concern over the accusations. The company emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and reiterated its commitment to complying with all applicable laws and regulations. Huawei has pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation, although it has not provided further details at this time.

A spokesperson for the company stated that they take the allegations seriously and will communicate with investigators urgently. They also underscored their commitment to ethical business practices and ensuring transparency in all lobbying efforts.

Raids and Sealing of Offices at the European Parliament

As part of the investigation, Belgian police have sealed two offices within the European Parliament. These offices are believed to be linked to suspected lobbyists who may have bribed MEPs to influence EU policy on behalf of Huawei. While no MEPs have been directly implicated in the raids, authorities are continuing to investigate the full scope of the corruption network.

The investigation also includes allegations of document forgery and the use of falsified records. Authorities suspect that these activities were part of a broader scheme involving money laundering and other criminal activities. The ongoing investigation is viewed as part of a larger effort to combat corruption within the EU institutions.

International Collaboration in the Investigation

The scope of the investigation extends beyond Belgium, with authorities in Portugal and France also involved. In Portugal, police carried out a search at an address believed to be connected to the case. French authorities have arrested an individual suspected of being involved in the corruption network.

The international nature of the investigation underscores the significant concern over foreign influence in EU policymaking, particularly from large corporations like Huawei. These companies are under increasing scrutiny as EU regulators continue to examine their lobbying practices and their potential influence on EU decision-making.

Expert Opinions and Ongoing Developments

Legal experts believe this investigation could be a turning point in how lobbying activities are regulated within the European Union. The EU has faced criticism in the past for its handling of corporate influence, and this case could lead to new regulations or reforms aimed at increasing transparency and reducing the risk of corruption.

At this stage, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet revealed the full details of the suspects involved. Belgian officials have indicated that more arrests could follow as the probe deepens.

As the investigation into alleged corruption within the European Parliament continues to unfold, the involvement of international authorities and companies like Huawei highlights the growing concerns over lobbying practices and political influence within EU institutions. The Belgian authorities are leading the charge, with cooperation from Portugal and France, and further developments in the case are expected in the coming weeks. The investigation is a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in the European Union’s policymaking processes.