Huawei grows up in Canada despite the pressure there

The phone and telecom equipment manufacturer announced Thursday that it would create 200 new jobs in research and development in Canada, an increase of 20%. It will also increase by 15% its spending on research and development.

"We are grateful to be able to work in Canada, a country with one of the most innovative technology communities in the world," said Eric Li, president of Huawei Technologies Canada, in a statement.

The decision comes as the United States tries to persuade its allies to close Huawei's products to the next-generation 5G wireless networks.

US authorities say the Chinese government could use Huawei hardware to spy on other countries. Huawei denies that any of its products pose a risk to national security. He says that he would refuse any request for espionage from Beijing.

The United States is also pursuing criminal proceedings against society – a brawl in the country's northern neighbor.

Canadian authorities arrested Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Huawei, in December at the request of the United States. US officials say Meng helped his employer to bypass US sanctions on Iran.

Meng is now facing a court battle in Vancouver that could result in his extradition to New York.

His arrest resulted in a diplomatic stalemate between the Chinese and Canadian governments. China furiously called on Canada to return Meng, and several Canadians in China were subsequently arrested. Canada said it was only following the letter of its extradition agreement with the United States.

Meng, who was released on bail of C $ 10 million (US $ 7.5 million), is scheduled to appear in court in March.