China urges US to stop spy narrative, tech blockade excuses
Beijing tells Washington to halt fabrication of espionage stories as pretext for technology restrictions. Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning says China's tech progress relies on independent innovation and open cooperation.
China has called on the United States to stop inventing so-called spy narratives to justify technology blockades, after reports that US intelligence officials suspect a woman involved with Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang may be a Chinese agent. The response came at a regular press briefing in Beijing on 12 November.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China's position on such allegations was clear: China's technological advancement depends on independent innovation and open cooperation. “The US side should stop fabricating so-called spy narratives as an excuse to impose technology blockades,” Mao said.
The issue arose after Huang admitted to an extramarital affair, and US intelligence officials reportedly suggested the woman could be a Chinese spy. Mao did not confirm the details but reiterated China's opposition to baseless espionage claims.
On the broader issue of US chip exports to China, Mao said China consistently opposes Washington's overreach in national security designations, the creation of various discriminatory lists, and the unwarranted suppression of Chinese institutions.
The remarks came ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders' Week, scheduled for next week in Shenzhen, where Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to meet US President Donald Trump for their third meeting this year. Mao said both sides maintain close communication on the interaction between the two leaders, and China is ready to work with the US to implement their important consensus and build a constructive strategic stability relationship based on respect, fairness and reciprocity. China is also in communication with relevant parties regarding a possible trilateral meeting with Russia and the US.