On January 26, the town of Kohtla-Järve in northeastern Estonia held a Chinese New Year event that raised concerns. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna expressed unease over the event being sponsored by the Chinese Embassy, stating that “there is no such thing as a free lunch.” He believes that the Chinese Communist Party’s intention to exert “soft power” in such events aims to sow division.
According to reports from Estonia Public Broadcasting (ERR), photos showed Eduard Odinets, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDE) in Estonia, pictured alongside the Chinese Ambassador at the event.
During an interview with ERR, Mayor Henri Kaselo of Kohtla-Järve was asked about the initiator of the event, to which he responded that the opportunity was provided by the Chinese Embassy.
Kaselo also mentioned that the Chinese Ambassador had visited the town during a music festival held last July.
However, the “soft power” operations conducted by the Chinese Communist Party in Estonia have raised concerns within the country’s intelligence agencies. Estonian security services previously warned that China poses a threat to Estonia, including through cultural activities and other “soft power” initiatives.
Estonia’s Internal Security Service (ISS) stated that the Chinese Embassy in Tallinn is a key tool for China to exercise “soft power,” promote Beijing’s official views across various political fields, and enhance the image of the Chinese Communist Party.
The country’s foreign intelligence agency also warned that Communist China aims to deliberately weaken Western influence and steer international relations towards a multipolar world order, aligning with the principles and interests of some authoritarian regimes.
Foreign Minister Tsahkna expressed sadness to see the Kohtla-Järve city government led by the SDE party celebrating Chinese New Year with Chinese funding and discussing peace. He emphasized that there are no free lunches and hoped for a clear stance from the SDE party to avoid division and weaken the country’s position.
SDE leader and Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets suggested that the Foreign Ministry develop a more concrete policy towards China earlier on Monday.
In response, Tsahkna stated that the policy already exists and is clear. He emphasized the importance of politicians adhering to common sense, especially when dealing with issues involving Chinese government funding that have aroused public anger. Tsahkna stressed that it is paramount for political figures to prioritize principles over external influence, and that organizing New Year celebrations should be funded internally rather than relying on external sources.