Chinese ambassador to Costa Rica steps down in 5G row
Photo: Costa Rica Legislative Assembly. Credit: Wikimedia Commons.
China’s ambassador to Costa Rica, Tang Heng, is leaving his post at a time of intense tensions due to the exclusion of Chinese companies in the development of a possible 5G network in the Central American country. The news was announced by Foreign Minister Arnoldo André Tinoco during an appearance before the Legislative Assembly.
Tinoco expressed his surprise over the Chinese embassy’s defense of Huawei’s interests in the matter, considering this action unusual in Costa Rica. Tang Heng has held his post for six years and eight months, and although his tenure has been confirmed to end, the exact date of his departure has not yet been specified.
The exclusion of Chinese companies from 5G development in Costa Rica has led to diplomatic tensions. China has criticized President Rodrigo Chaves’ move, arguing that it is unfair and accusing Costa Rica of politicizing national security. A national decree approved in August 2023 states that only companies from countries adhering to the Budapest Convention can provide 5G technology in Costa Rica, excluding companies such as Huawei.
Tang Heng and the Chinese embassy have expressed their disagreement with the decree, arguing that it violates trade agreements between both countries and undermines the confidence of Chinese companies in Costa Rica. They warned that this exclusion from the telecommunications sector could expand to other sectors in the future.
This situation underscores the complexity of diplomatic relations between the two countries and poses challenges for future collaboration on technological and commercial matters.
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