China tells US to stop cyberattacks on tech firms

China urged the United States on Friday to stop malicious cyberattacks targeting Chinese technology firms, vowing to take necessary measures to safeguard its cybersecurity and interests.

China's National Computer Network Emergency Response Technical Team (CNCERT) released two investigative reports on Friday, which revealed two cyberattacks by US intelligence agencies targeting an advanced materials research institute and a large Chinese technology firm to steal trade secrets.

China expresses serious concern over the cyberattacks and theft of commercial and intellectual property secrets by the US, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a daily news conference.

Cyberspace is closely related to national security and economic prosperity for all countries, he said.

Washington should reflect on itself and stop political smear campaigns, Guo said, urging the US to adhere to the international rules it asks others to follow in a responsible manner.

The US should work with the international community to jointly maintain peace and security in cyberspace, he said.