Portugal’s telecoms watchdog, ANACOM, joins forces with major operators to enforce a high-level resolution aimed at excluding Huawei Technologies’ equipment from its burgeoning 5G mobile networks. This move comes amidst legal objections from the Chinese tech giant, marking a substantial setback in Huawei’s ambitions to play a pivotal role in Portugal’s 5G market.
ANACOM, the National Communications Authority of Portugal, has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing decisions related to security, aligning not only with national objectives but also adhering to European guidelines. This cooperative effort with telecom operators, including Altice, NOS, and Vodafone, underscores Portugal’s dedication to bolstering the security of its 5G networks.
Portugal’s Consultative Council for Strategic Cybersecurity (CSSC), which advises the Prime Minister, adopted a resolution in May that refrained from explicitly mentioning Huawei but was widely perceived as a setback to Huawei’s plans. The resolution, founded on a rigorous and independent security assessment in line with European Union guidelines, has prompted Portugal’s major operators to eschew Huawei equipment in their 5G core networks.
Huawei, a global leader in telecom equipment manufacturing, responded to these developments by filing a lawsuit in a Lisbon court at the end of August, seeking legal protection for its legitimate interests. The legal dispute adds another layer of complexity to the evolving situation.
The CSSC’s resolution, while not directly targeting Chinese suppliers, reflects growing concerns in Europe and the United States regarding potential security compromises associated with Chinese involvement in critical infrastructure. Both Beijing and Huawei vehemently deny these allegations, but European and American apprehensions persist.
Mario Campolargo, Portugal’s Secretary of State for Digitalization and chair of the CSSC, has emphasized the meticulous and coordinated approach taken by the government and ANACOM in addressing these security concerns. The close collaboration between these entities underscores their shared commitment to safeguarding Portugal’s telecommunications infrastructure.
ANACOM’s President, Joao Cadete de Matos, expressed confidence in the successful execution of the resolution and stressed the need to await the development of the Huawei lawsuit. This ongoing legal battle further highlights the intricate nature of the situation and its potential implications for Huawei’s presence in Portugal’s telecom sector.
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(via)
