Sri Lanka will soon establish a national policy to regulate visits by foreign research vessels, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath announced on Friday, addressing frequent docking requests from Chinese surveillance ships that have raised security concerns in India.
Herath’s remarks followed Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent visit to India, during which no formal agreements were signed apart from two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on public service training and preventing dual taxation.
In January, Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign marine scientific research vessels in its waters and Exclusive Economic Zone after security concerns were flagged by India and the United States. Herath confirmed that the moratorium remains in effect but will be reviewed at an appropriate time.
After his return from India, President Dissanayake met a senior Chinese official who expressed China’s desire to resume visits by Chinese research ships to Colombo.
When asked if India raised concerns during Dissanayake’s visit, Herath stated that India’s apprehensions stemmed from national and regional security threats. “We assured that we will not allow any action to threaten Indian security concerns by using our land,” he said.
Describing the visit to India as a success, Herath noted, “The visit has turned out to be one which has resulted in many achievements for the people of Sri Lanka. It took the relationship to a new height.”
Herath also dismissed allegations of finalized agreements on a direct fuel pipeline or a security pact across the Palk Strait, emphasizing the government’s focus on promoting trade and investment.
Regarding the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), Herath clarified that discussions are ongoing and no final agreements were reached. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties while safeguarding Sri Lanka’s national interests.
Source: PTI
