China Denies Cyber Attacks Against U.S.
BEIJING, March 4 - (Kyodo)—China on Tuesday denied launching cyber attacks against the United States and criticized a U.S. Defense Department report that had expressed concern about Beijing’s cyber-warfare capabilities.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said China has already made “grave representations” to the United States over the Pentagon report, which said that numerous intrusions into computer networks around the globe appear to have originated from within China.
“I can tell you responsibly, the Chinese government is not doing such a thing,” Qin said at a regular press conference, when asked about the cyber attacks.
“If there is such evidence, we invite the Untied States to present proof and we can both begin cooperation in that area,” he said.
The Pentagon said in its annual report to Congress on China’s military power that numerous computer networks around the world have been subject to intrusions that appear to have originated within China.
The report said that while it is unclear if the intrusions were conducted by, or with the endorsement of, the Chinese military or elements of the Chinese government, development of such capabilities is in line with Chinese military documents.
“The U.S. report promotes the theory that China is a threat, seriously bends truth, interferes with China’s internal affairs and breaks rules of international relations,” Qin said.
“China expresses firm opposition and has made grave representations to the United States,” he said.
While the Pentagon’s report also expressed concern over China’s lack of transparency in its military power, Qin also rejected that idea.
“We oppose any country or anyone who uses the military power transparency issue to promote the theory that China is a threat, and interfere in China’s internal affairs,” he said.
(AP)
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