Xi Jinping: China vows to work with US to fight cybercrime

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced his country’s intention to work with the US government to stop cybercrimes while insisting China is a cybersecurity defender during his speech to American tech industry leaders at Seattle, Washington.

“The Chinese government will not in whatever form engage in commercial theft, and hacking against government networks are crimes that must be punished in accordance with the law and relevant international treaties,” said Xi as reported by The Washington Post .

He stated that China is prepared to establish a high level joint dialogue mechanism with the United States to combat any form of online hack or commercial theft. He bolstered his claim by saying that any violation will be punished within relevant laws and treaties.

Daniel Kritenbrink, senior China advisor to President Obama, said the White House is looking forward to a robust discussion with the leader of the Chinese government. He noted there were several cyberspace and economic issues that need urgent attention.

A couple of weeks before Xi’s arrival, the Chinese government denied the United States’ accusations it launched a string of major hacks on U.S. government units and private American companies. Chinese domestic security head Meng Jianzhu made the denial in Washington.

Microsoft’s Satya Nadella and company co-founder Bill Gates and other tech executives revealed their concerns about China’s recent imposition of new and intrusive security measures, and a demand they transfer their technology to China. Xi gave assurances he’ll answer those concerns in a timely manner. He also said the Chinese government will work hard to provide foreign investors with transparent business policies.

The New York Times reported only 24 percent of American business executives are optimistic about the business outlook in China with 67 percent either pessimistic or neutral.