Q: Previously, governments of the UK and other countries accused the hacking group "APT31" linked to the Chinese government for malicious cyberattacks. The Communication Security Establishment of Canada claimed that it "has seen malicious activity by this same threat actor targeting Canada." What's your comment?

A: China firmly opposes and combats all kinds of cyberattacks, and is committed to working with all countries, on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, to strengthen cooperation and jointly deal with the threats of cybersecurity through channels such as bilateral dialogue or judicial assistance.

We strongly oppose the groundless accusations and smears against China from few countries like Canada. The Chinese side has made technical clarifications and responses to the so-called "APT31" - related information submitted by the British side, and made it clear that the evidence provided by the British side was inadequate and relevant conclusions lack professionalism. But there has been no further response from the British side.

The origin-tracing of cyberattacks is highly complex and sensitive. When investigating and determining the nature of cyber cases, one needs to have adequate and objective evidence, instead of smearing other countries when facts do not exist, still less politicize or even weaponize cybersecurity issues. Five Eyes countries, including Canada and the US, have long violated international law and the basic norms of international relations by carrying out large-scale, organized, and nondiscriminatory cyber theft, wiretap, and surveillance on foreign governments, enterprises, and individuals. The US has the world's largest spy network and has long used its tech advantage to conduct massive surveillance and secret theft and cyber theft against its allies and the rest of the world. If Canada is indeed a victim of cyberattacks, it may want to take a closer look at where the attacks are coming from.