‘Blatant lie’: China slams US panel’s ‘genocide’ claim after Starbucks opens first Xinjiang stores

China's foreign ministry has condemned a US congressional committee's criticism of Starbucks for opening stores in Xinjiang. The US claims genocide against the Uyghur minority in the region, which China denies vehemently. Despite the accusations, Starbucks intends to continue its business operations in Xinjiang. The company recently expanded through a joint venture in China, increasing its nationwide presence.