Chinese Government Responds to U.S. Ambassador’s Remarks on Huawei

The Chinese Communist Party, via its embassy in Panama, expressed discontent regarding recent comments made by U.S. Ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera. He suggested that Chinese companies, including Huawei, might not be trustworthy.

Ambassador Cabrera had an interview with Panama Press, touching on various subjects like the Panama Canal, customs duties, the extradition related to a long-standing case tied to the 1994 Hezbollah bombing of a plane, and Panama’s evolving relationship with both the U.S. and China. In light of recent hacking incidents that have targeted government platforms, Panama’s cybersecurity has become a focal point.

During the discussion, Cabrera voiced concerns over Chinese technology, pointing out that the country has yet to sign the 2001 Budapest Convention on Cybercrime. He stated, “Chinese technology cannot be trusted,” suggesting that China’s hesitance to sign is due to its reluctance to adhere to necessary transparency and safety standards for tech users.

He reiterated his mistrust in companies like Huawei, advocating for technology from nations that uphold the Budapest Treaty, such as the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and several European states.

The backlash from the Chinese government was swift. Its embassy in Panama urged for a more thoughtful interpretation of Cabrera’s statements, labeling them as lacking common sense and hinting at hypocrisy.

China countered by branding the U.S. as “the world’s largest source of cyberattacks,” accusing it of engaging in surveillance and cyber espionage in the region.

The embassy insisted that China is a staunch advocate for cybersecurity, denouncing cyberattacks, and emphasizing its commitment to international collaboration to enhance security. They argued that U.S. accusations against China were merely political maneuvers without substantial evidence.

Huawei has faced substantial scrutiny over its connections to the Chinese government. Countries like the U.S., U.K., and Canada have restricted Huawei products due to potential security threats. Recently, the European Union signaled plans to halt funding for solar projects utilizing Chinese equipment, particularly from Huawei, after reports indicated serious cybersecurity concerns. Notably, in late 2024, Paraguay’s government reported that a Chinese-backed hacker group had breached its networks with U.S. assistance.

When asked about cybersecurity collaboration with the U.S., Cabrera reassured Panama’s allies that the U.S. is prepared to provide support in these areas whenever needed. He emphasized that maintaining relations with both the U.S. and China is a sovereign decision for Panama.