China’s interests in our region – its political and economic presence – are becoming more and more tangible, admits the Constitution Protection Bureau (SAB), commenting on the recent visit of Latvian Saeima deputies to China.
SAB regularly reports to and warns Latvian officials, including Saeima deputies, about the risks of visiting countries outside the European Union and NATO.
Generally SAB recommends officials, businessmen, researchers and all others planning to visit countries outside the EU and NATO to consider the risks that stem from visiting any specific country.
“China’s interests – both political and economic presence – in our region is becoming more and more tangibly. We have to keep in mind that cooperation with third countries can contain risks that can endanger the involved side and national security in general,” SAB stresses.
It is important to keep in mind that trips financed by foreign countries may not be aimed at solely friendly cooperation and presentation of opportunities.
They may also include targeted efforts to establish long-lasting contacts with specific people with knowledge, influence or access to information, notes SAB.
More information on the risks coming from third countries for Latvia’s national security will be available in the public portion of SAB’s report on 2023, which will be published soon.
Also read: Latvian KNAB to look into Saeima deputies’ “all expenses paid” visit to China
Follow us on Facebook and X!