We’re not a security risk for 5G, Huawei tells Australia
SYDNEY: Chinese telecommunications company Huawei Technologies Co Ltd has gone on the offensive against Australian claims it poses a security risk, issuing an open letter to the government saying that view was “illinformed.”
There has been much speculation about Huawei in recent weeks as Australia prepares to announce a tender for its massive 5G mobile telecommunications rollout, with local media reporting the country’s spy agencies have advised against including the company.
Australia, like the United States, worries Huawei is de facto controlled by China, raising fears that sensitive infrastructure will fall into the hands of Beijing.
“Recent public commentary around China has referenced Huawei and its role in Australia and prompted some observations around security concerns,” Huawei’s chairman and two board directors wrote in a letter to government that the company released to the media yesterday. “Many of these comments are ill-informed and not based on facts.”
Canberra is preparing to pass laws designed to limit Beijing’s influence in domestic affairs amid pressure on some of its fastest growing exports, a stance that has led to deteriorating relations between the two countries.
Huawei has repeatedly denied the allegations of Beijing control, and in the letter, dated Friday, again insisted it is an independent company.
The executives said the company has offered to build an evaluation and testing centre as part of its Australia 5G proposal “to ensure independent verification of our equipment right here in Australia.” – Reuters