網絡主權 (wangluo zhuquan): Cyber sovereignty

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 2nd World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province in East China, on Wednesday. In his speech, Xi stressed respecting cyberspace sovereignty, maintaining peace and security in cyberspace, and promoting open cooperation and good order.

The concept of "cyberspace sovereignty" is of great importance in Internet global governance. Every country should have the right to create its own Internet governance model and its cyber sovereignty should be respected. China firmly opposes Internet hegemony, foreign interference in internal affairs, and online incitement that could threaten national security.

The Internet is not beyond the law and it should be ruled in accordance with a country's laws and regulations. There are certain common principles in cyberspace that all countries should follow to assure win-win outcomes. However, each country is unique and Internet governance models will reflect this.

Although currently China has the largest Internet population globally, it is still a latecomer in cyberspace. Thus there is much space and potential for China to develop its Internet industry and improve management of its cyber realm. The Chinese government and IT companies will make great efforts to fight against online rumors, pornography, gambling, and other cyber crimes to protect citizens' rights and interests.