New Zealand will conduct independent assessment of Huawei equipment risk, says Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern
- “It is fair to say Five Eyes, of course, share information but we make our own independent decisions,” she said
No evidence has been produced publicly and the firm has repeatedly denied the allegations, which have led several Western countries to restrict Huawei’s access to their markets.
Ardern said New Zealand, which is a member of the Five Eyes intelligence sharing network that includes the UK and the US, would conduct its own assessment.
“I would expect the GCSB to apply with our legislation and our own security assessments. It is fair to say Five Eyes, of course, share information but we make our own independent decisions,” she said.
The Financial Times reported on Sunday that the British government had decided it can mitigate the risks arising from the use of Huawei equipment in 5G networks. It said Britain’s conclusion would “carry great weight” with European leaders and other nations could use similar precautions.