### Sweden Seeks Explanations from China Over Damaged Baltic Sea Cables

In a recent press conference, Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson disclosed that the country has officially requested China's cooperation to investigate the recent damage to two data cables on the Baltic Sea floor. The incident occurred in Swedish waters and involves a China-flagged bulk carrier vessel, the Yi Peng 3, which was seen in the vicinity.

The affected cables connect Finland to Germany and Lithuania to Sweden. Following their rupture last week, the Yi Peng 3 has remained moored in international waters between Sweden and Denmark. Kristersson reiterated Sweden's request for the vessel to navigate into Swedish waters for a detailed inspection as part of an ongoing international investigation.

"Sweden has communicated our desire for the ship to move to our waters and we are in discussions with China," Kristersson stated at a security meeting of Baltic sea region leaders. He further announced, "In addition to this, we have sent a formal request to China asking for their cooperation with Swedish authorities to clarify the situation."

Expressing unity on the issue, Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk voiced "full solidarity and full support" for Sweden, affirming trust in Sweden’s actions on behalf of all Baltic region countries.

The incident has prompted investigations by authorities in Finland, Sweden, and Germany. Initial remarks by Germany's defense minister suggested the possibility of sabotage, although concrete evidence has yet to emerge.

Responding to the situation, Chinese authorities in Beijing mentioned they had no specific information about the vessel but emphasized their willingness to communicate with relevant parties. They also called for the protection of the vessel’s navigation rights.

This incident follows a similar case last year when a cable running from Sweden to Estonia was deliberately damaged, adding to concerns over the security of vital communication infrastructure in the region.