Question: The annual report?by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in the UK claims that, China has been launching cyber attacks in recent years and is interested in British commercial secrets. The UK needs to work with its allies in response to the challenges posed by a rising technological China. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: China firmly opposes and combats cyber attacks and?theft in all their forms. NCSC's accusation?against China has no?factual basis.?China is deeply concerned over and firmly opposed to such irresponsible smear.

China is a main victim of cyber theft and attacks?and a staunch defender of cyber security.?China has recently launched the Global?Initiative on Data Security, which calls for all State parties to stand against the use?and abuse of ICT for destruction of critical infrastructure or theft of?important data of other States. The Initiative provides a constructive solution for safeguarding global data and online security.

The UK, for its part,?has designated cyberspace as a new frontier and has been developing offensive cyber capabilities aggressively?in recent years, which will undoubtedly heighten the risks of friction and conflict in cyberspace?and?threaten?global peace and stability. We urge the UK side to reflect upon its?mistakes, not throw accusations at others.

Cyber attacks are a common challenge. The international community needs to work together?in response.?Countries should take joint efforts to safeguard peace and security in cyberspace through dialogue and cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. Seeing the cyber security issue through the narrow prism of geopolitics has led some people to launch smear campaigns against others and create division and confrontation. Instead of enhancing cyber security, this will only undermine mutual trust and international cooperation in cyberspace.

China Daily