CRI听力:China Opposes to All Forms of Cyber Attacks: Chinese FM

The Chinese government is signaling its opposition to countries or individuals that launch cyber attacks.

The comment comes amid reports the United States has asked China for help on the Sony hacking case.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying:

"China has always been opposed to all forms of cyber attacks and cyber terrorism. We oppose the efforts of any government or individual to use the facilities in another country's territory to launch cyber attacks on a third country. That position is consistent and clear. China would like to engage in constructive cooperation with the international community in cyber security on the basis of mutual respect and mutual trust."

The cooperation comes following news that Sony Pictures decided to cancel the release of "The Interview" after receiving threats of attacks from hackers.

US federal investigators claim North Korea is behind the attack.

Addressing a question from reporters on the issue, U.S. President Barack Obama says he doesn't consider the cyber attack on Sony an act of war.

Obama however does admit his advisors are working on formulating a response to the situation.

"No, I don't think it was an act of war. I think it was an act of cyber vandalism that was very costly, very expensive. We take it very seriously. We will respond proportionately, as I said."

At the same time, Obama says his government is considering putting North Korea back on a U.S. list of countries that sponsor terrorism.

North Korea was removed from the list 6-years ago as an incentive to get Pyongyang into discussions over its nuclear program.

North Korea, for its part, is calling for a joint investigation to determine where the Sony hack came from.

The DPRK is also warning of "serious" consequences if Washington rejects the idea of a joint probe.

"We will never pardon those impure elements keen on insulting the dignity of the supreme leadership of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. If we need to retaliate we will target with legitimacy those responsible for any attack against us, targeting the attackers and their bases, not innocent audiences in cinemas."

The White House has already rejected the idea.