China slammed Canada on Friday 20th May, calling the ban on Chinese telecoms giants Huawei and ZTE from Canadian 5G networks “baseless” and based on fictitious security concerns.
Canada’s long-awaited move follows that of the US and other important allies, and it comes after a diplomatic spat between Ottawa and Beijing over the detention of a top Huawei official on a US warrant, which has since been resolved.
The 5G block is “firmly opposed” by China, according to foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin, who added that Beijing would “take all necessary steps” to defend Chinese enterprises.
“This action is in direct opposition to market economy principles and free trade laws,” he continued.
The declaration was made on Thursday by Canadian Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, who cited their “intention to prevent the inclusion of Huawei and ZTE goods and services in Canada’s telecommunication systems.”
Giving Chinese tech companies access to telecommunications infrastructure that may be exploited for state espionage has raised security concerns in the United States.
Both Huawei and Beijing have denied the charges, with Beijing threatening retaliation if countries impose limits on Huawei’s telecoms equipment.
Wang accused Canada of “seriously harming the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese firms” on Friday.
Comments