China has expressed serious concern over the European Commission’s newly announced cybersecurity package, which seeks to further “de-risk” Europe’s telecommunications networks by restricting so-called “high-risk” third-country suppliers.
According to reports, the European Commission rolled out the package on January 20, building upon the existing 5G security “toolbox.” The initiative aims to reduce dependency on suppliers deemed to pose security risks, with measures that could forcibly limit or exclude certain companies from Europe’s telecom infrastructure.
Some commentators have noted that the definition of “high-risk suppliers” carries a strong political undertone and appears to be aimed at removing Chinese telecom companies from European networks under the pretext of security concerns.
China Rejects Security Allegations Against Its Companies
Responding to a question from CGTN, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that China has noted the relevant reports and expressed grave concern over the EU’s move.
Guo stressed that Chinese companies have long conducted lawful operations in Europe and have consistently acted as law-abiding, high-quality providers to the EU’s telecommunications and digital sectors. He emphasized that these companies have never posed a security threat to European countries.
Accusations of Protectionism and Political Manipulation
The spokesperson criticized attempts to forcibly restrict or ban companies from the market without concrete evidence and based on non-technical criteria. He stated that such actions seriously violate market principles and the rules of fair competition.
Guo described the move as a clear example of protectionism, arguing that it reflects a trend of politicizing and securitizing normal economic and technological cooperation. According to him, arbitrary market intervention and violations of economic rules do not make any country safer, but instead come at a high cost.
Economic and Technological Consequences Highlighted
Guo pointed to experiences in a handful of countries where the phase-out of Chinese telecom equipment has already taken place. He noted that removing quality, safe, and secure Chinese telecom products has not only hindered digital and cyberspace development but has also resulted in substantial economic losses.
He further said that the European Commission has ignored the fact that Chinese companies have provided secure and high-quality products over many years, as well as the strong foundation and significant potential for cooperation between China and the EU in the digital network industry.
Warning on EU’s Investment Environment
According to the Chinese side, using security as a pretext for political manipulation gravely undermines the EU’s own technological progress and economic growth. Guo warned that such actions could damage the EU’s reputation as an open market and weaken foreign companies’ confidence in investing in the bloc.
China Urges Course Correction
China urged the EU to abandon what it called the “wrong path of protectionism” and to uphold market principles, fairness, and openness. Guo concluded by stating that China will take all necessary measures to firmly defend the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies.
