(Yicai Global) May 9 -- Huawei Technologies plans to release its first  fifth-generation network-capable smartphone for the Canadian market  before the end of this year.

The Shenzhen-based firm's Canadian unit confirmed the plans to state-backed  China News Service a media day event in Toronto on May 7. It aims to  bring 5G tech to the country and assist with the development of the  local economy and serve the community.

Huawei Technologies Canada will provide information and communications  technology training to more than 1,000 Canadians by 2020 through its  authorized teaching partner's program and other similar schemes across  the country. 

The company will allocate 5 percent of its research and development budget  to cybersecurity issues, said Olivera Zatezalo, chief security officer  at the Canadian unit, adding that the field is a vital part of the  company's strategy. 

Founded in 2008, the Canadian subsidiary is home to more than 1,000 employees, of which 600 are engineers.

Editor: William Clegg