In his first official speech, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof emphasized that the Netherlands must be “very careful” when dealing with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Schoof said that the Netherlands must be particularly vigilant when it comes to the country’s national security and the CCP. As a former Dutch head of intelligence, he has a profound understanding of the threat posed by Chinese hackers.
In 2019, the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service recommended that the Dutch government not use Chinese or Russian hardware or equipment, as they were frequently exploited in hacking attacks targeting the government, private enterprises and academic institutions.
The world’s premier semiconductor manufacturing equipment supplier, ASML, has said on multiple occasions that the CCP had attempted to spy on it and steal its trade secrets.
The Dutch government has adopted strict measures to counter the threat.
First, it has restricted exports of the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing machinery to China, a measure born out of economic considerations and to stop national core technologies being stolen by the CCP.
Second, Schoof’s government proposed reducing the number of immigrants to bolster national security and social stability. This policy has received widespread approval, as it is believed to reduce potential threats from abroad.
Schoof also spoke on the Dutch-US alliance, promising to continue to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion. Its support of Ukraine is in the best interests of Dutch self-defense, as well as upholding global peace and stability.
At the same time, the Dutch provision of 24 F-16 jets elevates Ukraine’s aerial defense capabilities. Dutch military aid to Ukraine helps the entire globe.
Schoof seeks to remind the world that when facing the CCP’s threats, it should not be underestimated. Regardless of whether it be a government, a company or an individual, all should be more vigilant. Only then can security, rights and interests be safeguarded.
Taiwan also needs to pay attention to international cooperation and give a unified response to the threat posed by the CCP.
Fang Kai-hung is an assistant professor at Taipei University of Maritime Technology.
Translated by Tim Smith
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