Q: The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS), along with intelligence agencies of other "Five Eyes" member countries, recently issued a so-called "warning," alleging that Chinese intelligence services are collecting sensitive information in New Zealand through online employment platforms and professional networking sites. What is the Embassy's response?

A: The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson yesterday stated China's position on “intelligence agencies from the so-called Five-Eyes Alliance claiming Chinese spies are using online job platforms to recruit people”. The spokesperson noted that as the world’s largest intelligence cooperation network, the “Five Eyes” has long been engaging in massive systemic espionage all over the world. It is ironic that such an organization is accusing China of “spy threat.”

The relevant accusations made by the “Five Eyes” are completely groundless, conflating right and wrong. They are nothing but smears and slanders against China to serve their political agenda. We urge the New Zealand side see things as they really are and exercise independent judgment rather than blindly echoing the positions of others. Acting otherwise would not be in keeping with New Zealand's own interests.