China's Ministry of Commerce appealed to the United States on Tuesday to properly recognize the significant progress made by Chinese companies and to cease their discrediting and suppression. The Chinese ministry demanded that Washington ensure a level playing field and protect broader economic and trade cooperation between China and the US.
Commenting on the US government's decision, made on Monday, to impose sanctions on five Chinese companies for 'theft of trade secrets' under the American Intellectual Property Protection Act, a ministry representative noted that China has taken note of this development.
The representative emphasized that the US has exaggerated the so-called 'trade secret theft' accusations in order to stigmatize and sanction Chinese companies, which seriously harms their legitimate rights and interests. He stated: 'This step is outrageous, and China firmly opposes it.'
Furthermore, the representative pointed out that the rapid growth of Chinese companies in artificial intelligence is the result of years of fundamental research and continuous investment in innovation, reflecting China's commitment to independent technological innovation and open cooperation. He stressed that such progress benefits China, the United States, and the entire world, and has no relation to alleged 'trade secret theft.'
The representative also strongly urged the US to immediately correct its erroneous practices, warning that China would take necessary countermeasures and resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies.