Sweden has formally requested China’s assistance in investigating recent damage to two data cables on the Baltic Sea floor, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced Thursday. The request follows reports of a Chinese-flagged vessel, the Yi Peng 3, in the vicinity of the damaged cables.

The cables, one connecting Finland to Germany and the other linking Lithuania to Sweden, were severed last week in Swedish waters. The Yi Peng 3, a Chinese bulk carrier, has been anchored in international waters between Sweden and Denmark. Kristersson stated that Sweden has asked for the vessel to be relocated to Swedish waters to facilitate inspection as part of an international investigation.

“Sweden has expressed our desire for the ship to move to Swedish waters, and we are in contact with China,” Kristersson said during a press conference in Harpsund. “Additionally, Sweden has sent a formal request to China to cooperate with Swedish authorities to clarify what has happened.”

The announcement came after a regional security meeting with Baltic Sea leaders. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed solidarity, affirming Poland’s “full support” and confidence in Sweden’s ability to address the issue in the collective interest of Baltic nations.

Authorities from Sweden, Finland, and Germany have launched inquiries into the cable damage. While Germany’s defense minister suggested sabotage as a possible cause, no conclusive evidence has been uncovered.

Earlier this month, Chinese officials in Beijing stated they had no information regarding the Yi Peng 3 but expressed willingness to “maintain communication” with relevant parties. They also emphasized the importance of protecting the vessel’s freedom of navigation.

The incident has raised security concerns in the Baltic region, with Sweden and its neighbors emphasizing the need for a coordinated response to protect critical infrastructure.