Image Source: Visual China

BEIJING, May 20 (TMTPOST) — The Canadian government has banned Chinese telecom companies Huawei and ZTE from taking part in 5G network projects in the country, citing concerns over national security.

Huawei Canada has commented that the company feels disappointed by Canada’s decision on the ban and noted that the ban only affects a small and shrinking business operation that Huawei has in Canada.

"This is an unfortunate political decision that has nothing to do with cyber security or any of the technologies in question," a statement said.

François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Canada’s Innovation, Science and Industry announced in Ottawa on Thursday that Canada would ban suppliers of high risks from being involved in the construction of the country’s 5G network. Under the decision, Canada’s telecom companies are prohibited from using any product or service from the blacklisted firms for their networks. Telecom companies that have already installed products from the blacklisted firms would need to stop using the products and remove them.

"This is the right decision and we are pleased to announce it today because it will secure our network for generations to come," Champagne told a news conference Thursday.

The Canadian government wants the country’s telecom industry to stop purchasing 4G and 5G equipment and services from Huawei or ZTE before September 2022. Telecom companies shall stop using new or existing 5G equipment and services from Huawei or ZTE before June 2024. Telecom companies in Canada are required to stop using any new or existing 4G equipment from Huawei or ZTE before December 2027.

The Canadian government said that it would submit a legislation soon to amend the country’s Telecommunication Act to support Canada’s telecom system in dealing with national security risks in finance, telecom, energy and transportation.

“China will comprehensively and seriously evaluate this incident and take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies,” the Chinese Embassy in Canada said in a statement posted on its website.