In China, Internet Czar Is Taking a Blunt Tone

Lu Wei, the head of the Cyberspace Administration of China and a key member of the newly formed Cybersecurity and Informatization Leading Group, explained the Chinese government’s position on Facebook. ‘‘China has always been hospitable, and we welcome anyone to come to China,’’ Lu said, according an official transcript of a news conference with foreign media, adding, ‘‘We cannot change others, but we have the right to choose our friends. I hope anyone who comes to China will be our real friends.’’ Just to be clear on what it means to be friends with China, Lu added: ‘‘I didn’t say Facebook could not enter China, but nor did I say that it could. Foreign Internet companies can come to China if they abide by the law. We could not allow any companies to enter China’s market and make money while hurting the country.’’ The rather blunt expression of economic nationalism might seem a gaffe, but it is characteristic of a new swagger that the Chinese government, and Lu in particular, have brought to discussing how China polices the Internet.