Aside from accusing China of stealing U.S. secrets, Hillary Clinton also criticized China's South China Sea Policy. (Photo : Reuters)
Chinese netizens are in an uproar over Hillary Clinton’s comments against China. The U.S. Democratic presidential candidate is considered “hostile” toward the country by most of those who chanced upon her speech.
It is the second time the former secretary of state is making a bid at the White House for the upcoming presidential elections. If ever Clinton is elected as the new American president, analysts predict deepened mistrust between China and the U.S., an outcome that is feared by many.
In her speech, which she delivered on Saturday, July 4, Clinton accused China of stealing vital government information.
"Make no mistake, they know they're in competition--and they're gonna do everything they can do win," Clinton said in front of Democratic supporters at a campaign event in New Hampshire. Clinton also remarked that China is "trying to hack into everything that doesn't move in America."
Despite appearing aggressive and sure of herself, with strongly worded accusations against China, Clinton may actually be trying to mask her lack of confidence.
"It is indiscreet of Hillary to make a speech like that. As a former chief diplomat, she should be professional and prudent enough to refrain from making such comments about other countries," said Jin Canrong, vice director of Renmin University's School of International Studies.
The scholar also added that it is "common practice" among American politicians to attack rivals like China in order to win votes during election year.
"Hillary doesn't have much of a lead in Iowa, so she needs some dramatic comments to attract public attention. Her China comments show that she is not as confident as she appears to be."
The presidential candidate also criticized China's South China Sea policy, saying that a peaceful rise to power is the most appropriate path for China.
"We have to be fully vigilant that China's military is growing very quickly and they are establishing military installations that again threaten countries we have treaties with, like the Philippines, because they are building on contest property."
