Sri Lanka has officially refused entry to a Chinese research vessel that sought to conduct explorations within its territorial waters, specifically in the Sea of Sri Lanka. The decision was confirmed by a senior government official who opted to remain anonymous.
Meanwhile, another state-of-the-art Chinese research vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 3, is anticipated to commence research activities in the Indian Ocean region, including the Sea of Sri Lanka and the Maldives, from January to May of the upcoming year.
Media reports indicate that China has formally requested permission for the research vessel from both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. However, recent information from the Hindustan Times reveals that India has strongly objected to the planned activities of the vessel, urging both island nations to deny entry.
The vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 is presently positioned off the coast of Xiamen in the South China Sea and is expected to travel via Malacca to these countries once permission is secured.
Amidst the geopolitical tensions, Indian media outlets have openly accused China of exploiting the research mission as a cover for intelligence gathering under the guise of scientific exploration.
Adding complexity to the situation is the recent political change in the Maldives, where the newly elected President, Mohamed Muizzu, reportedly called for the departure of Indian military personnel stationed in the country.
