BEIJING—China has urged the United States to cease all forms of malicious activities, including cyberattacks and the theft of commercial and intellectual property, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Friday. The call for action underscores rising tensions between the two nations over cybersecurity concerns.
The statement came after the National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team/Coordination Center of China (CNCERT/CC) released a comprehensive report earlier in the day. The report detailed cyberattacks allegedly conducted by American intelligence agencies targeting a Chinese advanced material design institute and a prominent high-tech enterprise specializing in smart energy and digital information.
The spokesperson emphasized the severity of the cyber intrusions, highlighting their potential to undermine China’s technological advancements and economic interests. “We strongly condemn these actions and demand that the United States immediately stop such activities,” the spokesperson said.
The report from CNCERT/CC sheds light on the sophisticated methods employed in the cyberattacks, which include unauthorized access to sensitive data and exploitation of network vulnerabilities. The affected institutions are key players in China’s innovation landscape, contributing significantly to the country’s development in cutting-edge technologies.
Analysts suggest that these revelations may further strain China-U.S. relations, already challenged by trade disputes and geopolitical tensions. The Chinese government’s call for the U.S. to halt its cyber activities reflects a growing insistence on cybersecurity and protection of intellectual property rights.
The foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated China’s commitment to safeguarding its national security and interests. “China will take all necessary measures to protect our institutions and enterprises from cyber threats,” the spokesperson added. “We urge the U.S. side to work with us in promoting a secure, open, and cooperative cyberspace.”
The international community watches closely as developments unfold, recognizing the broader implications for global cybersecurity and economic stability.
