China 'open to' cybersecurity teamwork

China has always firmly opposed and combated cyberattacks and commercial cyberespionage and is willing to work with the United States to increase mutual trust and cooperation in cyberspace, a senior Chinese official said on Thursday.

However, the Chinese government will also firmly protect its own interests in cyberspace and is resolutely opposed to any statements or actions that harm China's interests, Assistant Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang said while briefing reporters on President Xi Jinping's first state visit to the US next week.

Cybersecurity will be one of the main issues that Xi and US President Barack Obama will discuss, along with military contacts, trade cooperation, energy, aviation and law enforcement, Zheng said.