According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, September 8, 2020, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in "Seize the digital opportunity, cooperation and development" International Symposium on the high-level conference, and delivered a speech titled "Stick to multilateralism, advocate justice and fairness, cooperate to achieve win-win situation". In the speech, he put forward "the Global Data Security Initiative".
Wang said that China is now at a historic moment when a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is poised to take off. All countries face the common task of promoting integrated development of the digital and real economies, accelerating the shift of growth drivers from old to new, and forging new industries and new forms of business. Global data is becoming a driving force for economic development and industrial innovation in all countries. At the same time, data security risks pose new challenges to global digital governance. There is an urgent need for governments to strengthen communication, build mutual trust, closely coordinate and deepen cooperation, jointly discuss ways to deal with data security risks and seek common approaches to global digital governance.
Wang Yi said the effective response to data security risks and challenges should follow three principles: First, uphold multilateralism. Global data security rules that reflect the will of all countries and respect the interests of all parties should be reached based on extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits. Second, we will give equal consideration to security development. All countries have the right to protect their data security by the law. They should also provide an open, fair and non-discriminatory business environment for all companies. Digital protectionism violates the objective laws of economic development and does not conform to the trend of globalization. It not only undermines the right of global consumers to have fair access to digital services but also ultimately hinders their development. Third, we must uphold fairness and justice. Data security shall be maintained based on facts and regulations. Politicizing the issue of data security and deliberately applying double standards, even at the cost of spreading rumors and smears, run counter to the basic norms governing international relations and seriously interfere with and hinder global digital cooperation and development.
Wang stressed that China's digital economy is booming, with the number of Internet users exceeding 900 million. Chinese law has made explicit provisions to protect the legitimate rights and interests of citizens and organizations, including data security and personal information. The Chinese government strictly follows the principles of data security protection. We have not and will not require Chinese companies to provide overseas data to the Chinese government in violation of other countries' laws.
Wang said China is ready to launch the Global Data Security Initiative to address new issues and challenges and jointly build a peaceful, secure, open, cooperative and orderly cyberspace. He welcomed the active support of all parties. The main contents of the Initiative include: First, take an objective and rational view of data security and commit to maintaining an open, secure and stable global supply chain. Second, we oppose the use of information technology to damage other countries' critical infrastructure or steal crucial data. Third, measures should be taken to prevent and stop ACTS of infringement on personal information. Information technology should not be abused to conduct mass surveillance on other countries or illegally collect the personal information of citizens of other countries. Fourth, enterprises should respect local laws and should not be forced to store data generated or acquired abroad in their territory. Fifth, we should respect the sovereignty, jurisdiction and right of data management of other countries, and should not directly transfer data located in other countries to enterprises or individuals. Sixth, the demand for cross-border data retrieval in law enforcement should be addressed through judicial assistance and other channels. Seventh, information technology products and services suppliers should not set back doors in products and services, illegal access to user data. Information technology enterprises shall not seek illegitimate benefits by taking advantage of users' dependence on products.
Wang expressed the hope that China's Initiative could provide a blueprint for the formulation of international rules on digital security and start a global process. We look forward to the participation of governments, international organizations and multiple stakeholders, and welcome countries to support relevant commitments in the Initiative through bilateral or regional agreements. China is ready to listen to all parties' useful suggestions on the proposal with an open mind.
The China Internet Governance Forum organized the seminar. Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Shaukat Aziz, former Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Arturbayev and UN Deputy Secretary-General Liu Zhenmin delivered speeches at the high-level meeting, attended by Chinese and foreign experts, scholars and representatives of Internet companies.
