The Russian aggression has caused shocks not only in Europe, but the entire world as well, undermining the existence of an order based on international law, said Latvian Saeima speaker Edvards Smiltēns during his meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Latvia Tang Songgen.
The Chinese ambassador said China understands the growing concerns about the situation in Ukraine and has always stood in favour of countries’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
China stands with peace and invites putting an end to the war, said Songgen, adding that the war has an influence on the global economy.
“Blood is spilled in this merciless war caused by Russia. It needs to end, and Russia must be brought to justice for its crimes. Our focus is on what is happening in Ukraine, and security is the most important topic. China could play a significant role in helping to end the war and making sure Russia complies with the most important principles – countries’ sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said Smiltēns.
The two sides also discussed ways to increase exports of Latvian goods to China.
Smiltēns specifically outlined the issue of poultry and grain exports, inviting the ambassador to support the certification process for these products by Chinese authorities.
Songgen was positive about opportunities to promote Latvian exports to China, stressing that the fact that the two countries have multiple sister cities, which affirms the close contacts between the two countries, is a beneficial factor.
Saeima speaker stressed the role of the UN Security Council in ensuring international peace, adding that Latvia stands in favour of creation of an international tribunal.
“The guilty must be brought to justice. This is very important to ensure no one else ever commits such atrocities in the future,” said Smiltēns.
Songgen welcomed the Saeima having composed a group of deputies to promote cooperation with China’s parliament. He also voiced commitment to promote closer cooperation between the parliaments of the two countries.
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