This week, the top officials of both Apple and Facebook praised China after an internet conference held in Beijing despite the fact the country continues to ban Western social media and stop any online dissent.
China's World Internet Conference hosted many top officials from Google, Apple and other internet companies and they have heard China's vow to open its restricted internet so long as it can protect its cyberspace similar to how the country protects its borders. The event was endorsed by top US tech executives despite the new laws introduced in China regarding censorship and data storage.
According to Facebook Vice President Vaughan Smith, "I'd compliment the Chinese government in terms of leadershiop on using data".
He also commented on the job of the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and said "The Chinese government, the CAC and MIIT, are doing a fabulous job on that."
Facebook and Goggle are not available in China, as well as other major news outlets and social media sites. In its case, Apple is under strict censorship in terms of what apps are available in its App Store.
On Sunday, Apple's Chief Executive Tim Cook said "the theme of this conference, developing a digital economy for openness and shared benefits, is a vision we at Apple share."
The conference included discussions on artificial intelligence, tech innovation, and even specialized codes which were used to open China's Firewall so that guests can access the unrestricted internet.
In his talk regarding digital economy on Tuesday, Smith also remarked "more people come to Facebook than are in China. But I realize not everyone in the room is familiar with Facebook."
Alibaba's Chairman Jack Ma also remarked on the event, saying that foreign firms wishing to enter the Chinese market can easily do so if they are willing to abide by its laws. He said, "Foreign companies are determined to come. Follow the rules and laws and if you're unhappy, leave. This is not a market (where) you can come and go."
