Huawei Rejects U.S. Ambassador's Espionage Claims as 'Unfounded'

Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei has directly addressed accusations of espionage leveled by U.S. Ambassador Peter Lamelas, refuting them as "unfounded." In a statement, Huawei emphasized its status as a "100% private company" operating in Argentina since 2001, strictly adhering to local laws and regulations. The company asserted that its primary focus remains on delivering value to customers and contributing to Argentina's technological advancement.

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Huawei is a 100% private company, with a presence in Argentina since 2001, which operates in strict compliance with the laws and regulations of each country where it operates.

Regarding the U.S. diplomacy's warnings about Chinese espionage, Huawei pointed to its history since its 1987 founding, highlighting an "impeccable record" in cybersecurity and data protection. The company stated that its equipment and solutions meet the highest international standards and undergo independent audits by globally recognized firms. Huawei concluded its response by stating that its history, as a company owned by its employees and a 25-year partner in Argentina's digital transformation, is its answer to baseless accusations.

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As a company, our focus is only one: to create value for our customers and contribute to the technological development of the country.

Ambassador Lamelas had previously voiced concerns at an AmCham Energy forum, particularly in the context of negotiations between Huawei and the Neuquén electrical cooperative CALF for a data center in Vaca Muerta. Lamelas argued that China compels its companies to provide state access to data passing through their technology and AI networks, asserting that "everything is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party." He suggested this situation would deter foreign investment in Vaca Muerta and questioned why Huawei equipment is banned in the United States, which he described as "one of the most capitalist and freest countries in the world."

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From its foundation in 1987, Huawei has built an impeccable record in cybersecurity and data protection. Its equipment and solutions comply with the highest international standards and are independently audited by one of the most recognized auditing firms in the world.

The controversy intensified following leaked WhatsApp messages allegedly sent to CALF's technology manager by Andrew Dilts, the U.S. Embassy's Economic Affairs attaché. Dilts reportedly inquired about canceling the data center initiative with Huawei and warned of Washington's policy to "restrict or revoke visas for executives who expand Huawei's operations in Argentina." CALF, described as Patagonia's largest electricity distributor, perceived these actions as "pressure and intimidation," prompting its board of directors to respond.

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Faced with unfounded accusations, our response is our history: a company owned by its own employees, with 25 years in Argentina accompanying the connectivity and digital transformation of the country, its industries, and its society.