Commission endorses EU toolbox for secure #5G networks

Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market and Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age present cybersecurity 5G toolbox

In early 2019, European heads of government called for a concerted approach to address the issue of 5G security. Today (29 January), the Commission presented its toolbox of mitigating measures agreed in close collaboration with EU countries to address risks related to the rollout of 5G mobile networks.  

Through the toolbox, the EU countries are committing to move forward in a joint manner based on an assessment of risks and necessary mitigating measures. In line with the EU’s ambitions to make ‘Europe fit for the digital age’ and to speed up deployment and take-up of 5G, Commission has called for key measures to be put in place by all member states by 30 April 2020, with an implementation report on 30 June. 

Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age, said: “We can do great things with 5G. The technology supports personalised medicines, precision agriculture and energy grids that can integrate all kinds of renewable energy. This will make a positive difference. But only if we can make our networks secure.” 

Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market, said: “Europe has everything it takes to lead the technology race. Be it developing or deploying 5G technology – our industry is already well off the starting blocks. Today we are equipping EU Member States, telecoms operators and users with the tools to build and protect a European infrastructure with the highest security standards to we all fully benefit from the potential that 5G has to offer.” 

Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, said: “A genuine Security Union is one which protects Europe’s citizens, companies and critical infrastructure. 5G will be a ground-breaking technology, but it cannot come at the expense of the security of our internal market. The toolbox is an important step in what must be a continuous effort in the EU’s collective work to better protect our critical infrastructures.” 

The EU has not identified a country or company that poses a particular risk. One that was identifies by the UK as a “high-risk vendor” is Huawei.  

The EU and China share many interests – even if China is both a competitor and a partner. In this context - with two EU-China Summits coming up this year – which in itself is remarkable - Huawei is part of the long-term strategic solution for Europe.

Abraham Liu, Huawei Chief Representative to the EU Institutions said: "Huawei welcomes Europe’s decision, which enables Huawei to continue participating in Europe’s 5G roll-out. This non-biased and fact-based approach towards 5G security allows Europe to have a more secure and faster 5G network.  

“Huawei has been present in Europe for almost 20 years and has a proven track record with regard to security. We will continue to work with European governments and industry to develop common standards to strengthen the security and reliability of the network.” 

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