Perhaps it is the not the pilots (or their race) that is really in question but rather the fact that they come from areas of the world where rules may be lax. They may be great pilots but that is not going to help when the maintenance lacks!
EK just fired at least one pilot because he was taking photos on the ramp!! Image matters to some people and some companies.
The cry of racism is nothing more than attempt to stifle conversation. If we were talking about Americans or Europeans in a poor light no one would think twice.
The article speaks of perception--that simple.