China has provided information and documents for the joint investigation into the incidents involving two broken submarine cables in the Baltic Sea, News.bg reports.
Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning said that the country is ready to help complete the investigation, inviting Germany, Sweden, Finland and Denmark to actively participate in the process. The damage to the two fiber-optic cables in November – one connecting Finland and Germany and the other between Sweden and Lithuania, has raised concerns about possible sabotage and the risk to critical infrastructure.
Controversy over cooperation with China
During the investigation, China was criticized by Sweden for refusing to provide full access to information and for the prosecutor's limited access to the suspect ship Yi Peng 3. However, China explained that it decided to stop the ship for a long period in order to facilitate the investigation and protect the health of the crew. However, in recent days, the ship has resumed its journey, after consultations with interested countries.
China is committed to cooperation and communication with affected countries
Mao Ning confirmed that China has been notified in advance of all relevant countries and will continue to maintain dialogue and provide assistance to the investigative authorities. Chinese authorities also said they would continue their cooperation in the investigation of the incident, expressing their desire for a transparent and effective solution.