China criticizes EU’s Huawei Ban; EU stands firm on security concerns

China has strongly objected to the ban imposed by certain EU countries on Huawei, arguing that the European Commission lacks legal grounds and factual evidence to prohibit the Chinese telecom giant. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding cybersecurity and the global race for 5G dominance.

Thierry Breton, the EU industry chief, called for more EU countries to join the 10 nations that have already restricted or banned Huawei and ZTE from their 5G telecoms networks, citing concerns over collective security within the bloc. Breton also announced that both companies would be excluded from EU-funded programs. Huawei has criticized this decision, claiming that it lacks a verified, transparent, objective, and technical assessment of 5G networks, reported Reuters.

Several countries, including Germany, have been slow to implement the EU’s security measures for 5G networks, which were agreed upon three years ago to limit the involvement of “high-risk vendors” like Huawei due to concerns of possible espionage or sabotage. European telecom operators have opted for Huawei equipment due to its competitive pricing and reliable performance, making it challenging for companies to choose more expensive alternatives.

A spokesperson from Huawei argued that singling out the company as a high-risk vendor without a legal basis goes against the principles of free trade. They emphasized that as an economic operator in the EU, Huawei is entitled to procedural and substantial rights and should be protected under the laws of both the EU and its member states, as well as their international commitments.

Thierry Breton defended the ban, asserting that it is justified and aligned with the EU’s guidelines. He expressed concerns about certain EU countries still utilizing high-risk components in their 5G core networks, referencing intrusive third-country laws pertaining to national intelligence and data security, indirectly referring to China. Breton urged member states to adhere to the guidelines adopted two years ago, which call for a risk assessment of suppliers on a national or EU level and the restriction or prohibition of high-risk 5G vendors from critical parts of their telecoms networks.

The dispute over Huawei’s involvement in Europe’s 5G infrastructure reflects the ongoing tensions between China and the EU, highlighting the complex challenges surrounding cybersecurity and the global race for 5G dominance.