China accuses U.S. of acting with 'Cold War mentality' in Huawei case in Argentina

China's embassy in Buenos Aires has strongly criticized the United States, accusing it of employing a "Cold War mentality" in its warnings about Chinese technology firm Huawei operating in Argentina. The diplomatic dispute intensified after the U.S. ambassador to Argentina cautioned about the potential risks of sensitive company data being transmitted through Huawei's networks and technology, particularly in the Vaca Muerta region. The Chinese embassy dismissed these concerns as "slander without any foundation," asserting that the U.S. ambassador is generalizing national security concepts and instilling fear in the market. The controversy centers on the use of Huawei equipment for expanding fiber optic services in the Vaca Muerta area, a significant unconventional hydrocarbon formation where numerous oil companies, including U.S. firms, operate. The U.S. ambassador had previously warned that China demands its companies provide state access to data passing through their technology and artificial intelligence networks, suggesting this could deter foreign investment in Vaca Muerta. He emphasized that data energy security is a matter of national security for both Argentina and the United States. China's embassy countered by stating that Huawei has a strong track record in cybersecurity and data security, and that Beijing "never asks nor will ask companies to provide, collect, or archive data." The embassy further advised the U.S. to cease exaggerating a "China threat" and instead focus on actions that promote regional stability and development, suggesting that protectionism will not benefit the United States.