Rome took a pro-American stance
The Italian government has blocked an agreement between the Chinese company Huawei and telecommunications group Fastweb and to supply equipment for its 5G core network. This was reported by Reuters, citing three sources familiar with the matter, noting that this is a clear sign of Rome’s tough stance on Huawei.
Italy vetoes 5G deal between Fastweb and Huawei
The decision, taken at a cabinet meeting later this week, marks the first time the Italian government vetoed a deal to supply Huawei equipment for 5G core networks.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited Italy in September. During the visit, he described Chinese mobile technology as a threat to the country’s national security.
Huawei has flatly denied the allegations, and its Italian subsidiary said it is ready to undergo any verification to show that the equipment is safe.
However, the Italian government used its veto to prevent Fastweb, the Italian arm of Swisscom, from purchasing Huawei equipment.
Previously, Fastweb had selected Huawei as the sole supplier of equipment for the 5G network, according to whistleblowers.
While some US allies, such as the UK, have already announced at the state level that they will ban Huawei equipment in the future telecommunications infrastructure, Rome has so far refused to do so officially, although it takes a de facto pro-American position.
Italy’s largest telecom operator, Telecom Italia, sent out invitations in July to bid for 5G equipment for its core network. Huawei did not receive the invitation.
