"Latvian and Chinese officials discussed bilateral cooperation, the EU-China relations, as well as regional and international security matters. Andžejs Viļumsons paid particular attention to Russia’s war against Ukraine, highlighting China’s special responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council for ensuring peace and the implementation of the UN Charter," said the statement from the ministry.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry: "Noting that China regards Latvia as a cooperation partner, Deng Li said the Chinese side is ready to work with the Latvian side to consolidate the development momentum of bilateral relations, enhance political mutual trust, strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and promote the stable and positive development of China-Latvia and China-Europe relations."
During his visit, State Secretary Viļumsons also met with the leadership of the Ministry of Commerce of China to discuss the economic relations between Latvia and China, focusing on the promotion of export opportunities for Latvian products to China.
Indeed, the United Nations was very much the topic to the fore, with a parallel event at the Latvian embassy in Beijing attempting to drum up Chinese support for the Latvian diplomatic service's bid – launched a year ago – to get a temporary seat on the UN Security Council in 2026-7, as well as to mark the upcoming Latvian independence day on November 18.
In his address to those present, the Ambassador of Latvia to China, Kārlis Eihenbaums, said Latvia’s candidacy in the UN Security Council elections in 2025 would provide an opportunity to contribute to the strengthening of international law.
"The Ambassador welcomed the stability of bilateral relations between Latvia and China since the restoration of Latvia's independence, as well as the importance of the EU-China partnership in achieving international stability and peace," according to the Latvian Foreign Ministry.
The festive event was attended by high-ranking Chinese officials, diplomats from foreign embassies and international organizations accredited in Beijing, journalists of local and international media, researchers, and leaders of cultural and public organizations, it added.
China is one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. However, despite the hospitality provided by the Latvian embassy, Chinese officials are not likely to be impressed by strong criticism of China offered by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, while standing alongside Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs on November 14.
For Latvia to be elected to the UN Security Council, it must receive support from at least two-thirds of UN Member States, or 129 votes from among 193 voting countries, during an election to be held in 2025.
