The German Interior Minister has announced the measure citing security reasons.
The biggest economy of Europe, Germany, will prohibit the use of components from Chinese companies in the central parts of their redes 5G starting in 2026, as declared this Thursday by the country’s top security official.
Nancy Faeser, German Minister of the Interior explained that Germany must avoid the risks of sabotage and espionage. “With this we protect Germany’s central nervous system,” he said.
“We protect the communication of citizens, companies and the State“he added. “We must reduce security risks and, unlike in the past, avoid unilateral dependencies.
China responds and accuses Germany of discrimination
On the other hand, Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Germany must offer a non-discriminatory market for all companies.
“Politicize economic, commercial and science and technology issues “will only undermine normal technical exchanges and cooperation, and is of no benefit to either party,” he said.
“We hope that Germany respects the facts, make rational and independent decisions that conform to their own interests and international standards, and provide a fair market environment,” the spokesperson added.