Canadian ban on Huawei's 5G tech will trigger 'repercussions,' says China
The Chinese telecom giant's 5G tech sales have come under scrutiny.
Tension between Canada and China continues to mount over Huawei .
China on Thursday warned there would be repercussions if the Canadian government banned Huawei from supplying technology for the country's 5G network, according to Reuters.
"If the Canadian government does ban Huawei from participating in the 5G network, then as for what kind of repercussion there will be, I'm not sure, but I believe there will be repercussions," Chinese Ambassador Lu Shaye said through a translator at a news conference, according to Reuters. He added that Ottawa should "make a wise decision on this issue."
Huawei didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
"This is an important decision for Canada and we will make it based on what is right for our country," said Ralph Goodale, minister of Public Safety of Canada, at a cabinet retreat in Sherbrooke, Quebec today. "We are examining the security issues as well as the technical issues with a great deal of care. We've made it abundantly clear that we will not compromise national security. We will make the appropriate analysis and take the decision ultimately that we believe to be in Canada's interest."
This comes after Canadian authorities last month arrested Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou at the US government's request over alleged Iran sanctions violations. Meng, who is also the daughter of Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei, faced extradition to the US. She was released on bail in Canada.
The world's racing to deploy 5G networks, which promise significantly faster data speeds and more capacity for connected devices. However, the US has warned other countries against using the Chinese telecoms' equipment over security concerns, and Australia in July banned Huawei from its 5G rollout.
US lawmakers on Wednesday introduced bills that would ban the sale of US chips components to Huawei, ZTE or other Chinese telecom companies that violate US sanctions or export control laws, according to Reuters.
First published on Jan. 18, 9:14 a.m. PT.
Updates, 12:11 p.m. PT: Adds Canadian Minister of Public Safety Ralph Goodale statement.
NASA turns 60: The space agency has taken humanity farther than anyone else, and it has plans to go further.
Taking It to Extremes: Mix insane situations -- erupting volcanoes, nuclear meltdowns, 30-foot waves -- with everyday tech. Here's what happens.