Sicherheit: „Diffamierung und Verleumdung“: China weist Spionage-Warnungen scharf zurück

The Chinese embassy in Berlin is strongly rejecting accusations of "defamation and slander" regarding Chinese scientific espionage. Officials and industry leaders in Germany have raised concerns about Chinese espionage, but the embassy argues that regular scientific collaborations between the two countries should not be politicized or treated solely from a security perspective.

German industry associations have warned that China could exploit scientific cooperation to gain access to key technologies and expertise. Chinese officials have shown understanding for Germany's desire to protect national security, but insist that any criticism of China must be based on factual evidence and not political motives.

The embassy emphasized that it rejects "any unsubstantiated defamation, slander, and discriminatory actions against China." The warnings stem from identified weaknesses in security measures at the Helmholtz Center for Information Security, which has been criticized for inadequate protection of data and business secrets and for cooperating with risky individuals and institutions from China.

This is not the only case raising concerns about research security. Both CDU and SPD politicians share the assessments of Chinese intelligence services in Germany. Union Vice President Norbert Röttgen blames China for denying western scientists access to comparable sensitive areas in China, while CDU official Norbert Röttgen argues that Germany must protect its and European interests.

The Chinese embassy strongly criticized the selective security approach, stating that it would damage mutual trust and be detrimental to joint progress. Union and SPD officials stress that not every cooperation with China is a security risk, but documented risks should not be ignored, especially when involving state or military connections.

Experts argue that research freedom and international collaboration must be maintained, but with stricter security measures for sensitive technology and research areas.