In this March 29, 2018 photo, Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesman Gao Feng speaks during a press conference at the ministry in Beijing. (MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP)
China firmly opposed Sweden's move to exclude Chinese firms from participating in its 5G spectrum auction, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
Gao Feng, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, said China will take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
The comments came after Swedish telecom regulator PTS on Tuesday began auctions of its 5G spectrum. PTS had earlier banned Chinese telecom company Huawei and ZTE's equipment from its 5G networks, citing national security risks, an allegation that has not been backed by factual evidence.
Gao Feng, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, said the move has violated the basic principles of the World Trade Organization and international rules
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Gao said the move has violated the basic principles of the World Trade Organization and international rules, and it has also damaged the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
The Chinese side urges the Swedish side to immediately correct the wrong practices to safeguard the overall situation of bilateral economic and trade cooperation, Gao said.
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