will phase out the use of components from telecom giants Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks in the next few years , the Interior Ministry said on Thursday.
Components from the Chinese giants will be barred from 5G core networks by the end of 2026, Interior Minister said. “Critical management systems” from Huawei and ZTE in 5G access will be replaced by the end of 2029.
What did Germany say?
5G networks are part of Germany’s “critical infrastructure” and are key to the functioning of various sectors, ranging from health to transport to energy.
“We are protecting the central nervous systems of Germany as a business location — and we are protecting the communication of citizens, companies and the state,” Faeser said. “We must reduce security risks and, unlike in the past, avoid one-sided dependencies,” the ministry said.
The ministry said the decision followed negotiations with companies that operate Germany’s 5G networks: Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Telefonica. Agreements with the three companies are due to be signed.
How has China reacted?
On Thursday, Beijing said that the German government should evaluate providers of 5G technology without political consideration.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said that politicizing economic, commercial and technological issues only disrupt cooperation.
China hopes that Germany will respect facts, take appropriate decisions and provide a transparent and non-discriminatory market environment for businesses from all countries, Lin said.
He added Chinese companies such as Huawei have been operating for several years in Europe and have contributed to building infrastructure, while creating jobs and paying taxes. He stressed there was no evidence they were jeopardizing national security.
Tense Sino-German relations
Berlin and Beijing have enjoyed for years. However, since the war in Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis after ending ties with Russia, Germany has been seeking to on China.
Last year, German Chancellor government developed a Chinese relations strategy that referred to a “systemic rivalry” with Beijing. The strategy cited a need to reduce the risks of economic dependency amid a desire to work on challenges, including climate change and trade ties.
of the strategy.
rmt/lo (AFP, AP, dpa)
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