China has thoroughly lambasted Canada for blocking Chinese telecoms giants Huawei and ZTE from Canadian 5G networks, describing the ban as a ‘groundless’ ban and based on spurious security risks.
Africa Today News, New York reports that Canada’s long-awaited move comes on the heels of a diplomatic row between Ottawa and Beijing over the detention of a senior Huawei executive on a US warrant and follows the United States and other key allies.
‘China is firmly opposed to this,’ foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters of the 5G block, adding Beijing would ‘take all necessary measures’ to protect Chinese companies.
‘This move runs counter to market economy principles and free trade rules,’ he added.
Canadian Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne made the announcement on Thursday, citing their “intention to prohibit the inclusion of Huawei and ZTE products and services in Canada’s telecommunication systems.’
The United States has warned of the security implications of giving Chinese tech companies access to telecommunications infrastructure that could be used for state espionage.
Africa Today News, New York reports that Huawei and Beijing have both distanced themselves from the allegations, while Beijing warned of repercussions for nations placing restrictions on the telecoms equipment provider.
Wang on Friday accused the Canadian government of “seriously damaging the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies.”
In some combined retalitatory measures, Canada has announced that it will be banning some Chinese telecommunications companies which including Huawei and ZTE from her 5G wireless networks due to national security concerns.
This decision follows the United States and other key allies, and comes on the heels of a diplomatic row between Ottawa and Beijing over the detention of a senior Huawei executive on a US warrant, which has now been resolved.
The United States has warned of the security implications of giving Chinese tech companies access to telecommunications infrastructure that could be used for state espionage.