Today, Latvia and Estonia withdrew from the "16+1" Initiative, the purpose of which is to strengthen the cooperation of the countries of Central and Eastern Europe with China.

The decision comes amid open Western criticism of China for increasing military pressure on Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.

"Participation in the 16+1 format so far has not produced the desired economic results," the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Lithuania left the Initiative back in May, following the deterioration of relations with Beijing due to Vilnius' decision to allow the opening of the Taiwanese embassy on its territory.

On the other hand, Latvia announced that the participation in the initiative is no longer "in accordance with the strategic goals in the current international environment".

The two countries stressed on Thursday that they want to continue working on "constructive and pragmatic relations with China", while respecting the international rules-based system and respect for human rights.

Croatia, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia are still participating in the "16+1" Initiative, which will probably change its name after the departure of the Baltic states.