Finland reveals investigation progress, what does China commit to?

On November 10, Finnish National Bureau of Investigation spokesman Risto Lohi said that the anchor found near the damaged Balticconnector gas pipeline belonged to the Chinese ship Newnew Polar Bear.

Mỏ neo tìm thấy gần vị trí đường ống dẫn khí đốt Balticconnector thuộc về tàu Trung Quốc

Balticconnector gas pipeline. (Source: Elering)

“At this stage, it can be confirmed that the anchor found in the sea on October 24 is similar to the anchor of the Newnew Polar Bear according to certain specifications. The same paint color was found on the anchor as on the damaged gas pipeline,” Mr. Lohi said.

He added that most of the investigation had been completed but some technical aspects remained unclear.

During the investigation, experts discovered traces on the seabed on both sides of the pipeline, extending several kilometers to the east, possibly left by anchors. The location and time of the Chinese ship's movement coincided with the time the gas pipeline was damaged.

The ship was later discovered in the port of St. Petersburg.

Photos taken from the port of the container ship show that the anchor chain of the ship, which was moored at the port, was thrown into the water, although this was not necessary.

Earlier, Finnish police said that the Chinese container ship Newnew Polar Bear could have caused damage to the Balticconnector, as an anchor possibly belonging to this ship was found near the leak site.

However, it is still unclear whether this action was intentional or accidental.

The anchor may have become entangled in the pipeline and damaged the infrastructure. Finnish pipeline operator Gasgrid said the Balticconnector would not be restored until April 2024.

Earlier, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen informed: "China is committed to full cooperation and we believe in that."

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