China's 5G tech and BRI are a threat to Italy

Rome: US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo issued a stern warning that the Chinese communist party is only trying to fulfil its economic and policy objectives, through the schemes like Belt and Road Initiative. At the same time, it should be remembered that the Chinese companies with government links and their technology are a threat to Italian security. It is also reported that the Italian Foreign Minister has assured to take cognisance of the US concerns regarding China. European countries, the United Kingdom and France, have already decided to deny entry to the Chinese companies in the 5G sector and even Germany has indicated the implementation of new regulations. The United States seems to have reprimanded Italy, as it has still not taken any decision in the regard.

The controversy regarding Chinese company Huawei is raging in the world since the last one year and the United States has accused the company of espionage. The US state department has even prepared ‘Digital Trust Standards’ to avoid any transactions with Chinese companies. Along with 30 countries of the world, the European Union, as well as NATO, has welcomed this US stand. US President Donald Trump announced a ban on Chinese companies, Huawei and ZTE, citing issues of national security. The United States has started efforts to get other countries to bar Chinese companies and technology and the visit to Italy, also seems to be a part of the same initiative.

At the same time, the United States has sharpened the edge of its campaign against China, against the background of the Coronavirus pandemic. Aggressive decisions are being taken to expose and stop the policies and activities of the Chinese Communist Party. As a part of this campaign, arduous efforts are being made to open a comprehensive front against China, on the international level. Europe supported the stand taken by the United States, on the issues of Hongkong and atrocities against Uyghurs. Going further, the United States has taken steps to garner support, from Europe, on the issues like 5G technology, trade, South China Sea and Taiwan. This is demonstrated by the warning issued to Italy regarding China, by US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo.

China had joined hands with the European countries, to fulfil its economic and technological ambitions. China even used its financial muscle for this purpose. But the situation has changed over the last few months and there is widespread, intense discontent regarding China, in Europe. Europe has given a clear message that China will not get cooperation from the European countries, like in the past. Therefore, if a country like Italy breaks the Chinese connection, it will be a major jolt for China.