Germany’s decision to remove Huawei and ZTE from its 5G network has sparked strong backlash from China, with a spokesperson arguing that this move, driven by pressure from the US and NATO, undermines trust and future cooperation. Chinese experts warn that the switch could be costly and slow Germany’s digital progress. They believe the security risks cited are merely excuses to suppress competition, noting that no concrete evidence of danger has been provided. This situation raises questions about Germany’s independence in decision-making and highlights the broader struggle between China and the West over technology dominance.

On Thursday night, a representative from the Chinese Embassy in Germany expressed strong disappointment about Germany’s plan to remove Huawei and ZTE equipment from its 5G network. The spokesperson warned that this decision could harm trust between China and Germany, and affect future cooperation between China and the European Union (EU).

Germany’s Decision

Recent reports, including one from Reuters, revealed that the German government and local telecom companies have agreed to phase out Chinese-made components from their 5G networks over the next five years due to “security concerns.” This move is seen as pressure from the United States and the EU.

Expert Opinions

Chinese experts commented that this decision indicates Germany is increasingly bowing to external pressures. They warned that removing these Chinese technologies could be costly and slow down Germany’s advancements in communications.

The spokesperson from the Chinese Embassy pointed out that companies like Huawei and ZTE have been operating in Germany legally and have contributed positively to the country’s digital development. They argued that the security risks cited by Germany are merely excuses to limit competition and maintain technological dominance.

Political Context

The spokesperson emphasized that Germany’s announcement coincided with the NATO Summit in Washington, leading to concerns about the independence of Germany’s decision-making. Sun Yanhong, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, described the situation as politicizing economic cooperation, highlighting the increasing pressure Germany faces from the US and EU.

Such NATO pressure tactics were recently exposed by the Serbian President where he defiantly declared that Serbia is not NATO’s proxy. Former US and NATO general Wesley Clark recently accused Serbia of being a puppet for Russia and said President Vucic wanted to expand Serbia’s borders. President Vucic fired back: “To Mr. Clark and everyone else, it’s obvious Serbia isn’t anyone’s puppet—not Russia’s, not America’s, and never will be.” Vucic also reminded people of Clark’s brutal legacy in the Balkans, where he was responsible for killing Serbs and Serbian children during the 1999 NATO bombings.

Impact on Germany’s Digital Infrastructure

Sun noted that Germany’s digital infrastructure is lagging behind, while Huawei and ZTE offer advanced technology and cost-effective solutions. Transitioning away from these companies could have significant financial implications and restrict the growth of Germany’s digital economy, including sectors like smart driving and healthcare.

Concerns Over Fair Competition

The Chinese spokesperson stated that Germany cannot demand fair competition while discriminating against foreign companies based on unfounded security risks. They suggested that how Germany handles these issues will reflect its business environment and affect foreign investor confidence.

China called on Germany to respect the facts and make rational decisions, urging it to create a fair market for all companies, including Chinese firms. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, reiterated this sentiment during a press conference.

Broader Implications

This situation isn’t isolated to Germany; other European countries are also grappling with similar challenges as they weigh the benefits of using Huawei and ZTE technology against pressures from the US and EU.

As tensions rise over technology and security, the outcome of Germany’s decision could set a precedent for future international business relations.

Global NATO

The move is seen by geopolitical experts at GreatGameInternational as part of NATO’s expansion strategy to get a foot hold in Asia and thereby morph into what is being dubbed as a Global NATO. As GreatGameInternational reported earlier, NATO has just opened its first-ever liaison office in the Arab world, located in Jordan, marking a significant shift in its strategy towards the Middle East. As part of its Asian NATO strategy, Japan is being mobilised into confrontation with China. For it’s Arctic strategy, a plan is being floated called the ICE PACT – where NATO is mobilising US, Canada and Finland into confrontation with Russia with icebreakers.