China slams CIA deputy's espionage claims as US-China summit approaches

During a recent cybersecurity forum, CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis asserted that the United States is engaged in economic espionage targeting China’s key industries, including semiconductors and biotechnology, to counter perceived threats. He emphasized the intertwined nature of the two economies and the need for the CIA to adapt its intelligence collection. In response, China's commerce ministry denounced the comments as evidence of "bandit logic" and a blatant declaration that Chinese firms are legitimate espionage targets.

The ministry accused the United States of deliberately subverting fair competition and trampling international trade norms, vowing to take "necessary measures" to defend Chinese interests. It also warned that China's progress in artificial intelligence and biotech must not be treated as prey, rejecting a Cold War-style mentality. The dispute arises shortly before President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping are expected to convene at the White House, where issues such as AI and trade are slated for the agenda.