China rebukes Australian minister's cyber attack accusations: 'Stop throwing mud'
CGTN
Asia;

China denies involvement in any hacking attacks and is not interested in meddling in others' internal affairs, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said on Friday, rebuking accusations by a senior Australian minister that Beijing is seeking expansion of influence in Australia and the Pacific region.

"The Chinese government develops its relations with other countries based on mutual respect and non-interference in domestic affairs," Geng stressed. 

"We firmly oppose and will take down any form of cyber attacks in accordance with the law," he added.

"Please stop throwing mud at us so quickly whenever something happens."

A stable relationship between China and Australia brings long-term benefits to both sides, Geng said, urging the relevant personnel to get rid of the "Cold War" mindset and start doing constructive things that would enhance mutual trust between the two countries. 

Peter Dutton, the Australian government minister for home affairs, said on Friday said Australia would not tolerate China's cyber attacks despite the importance of their trading relationship.