Ocean Spies or Scientists? Sri Lanka Denies Entry to Chinese Vessel

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has denied entry to a Chinese research vessel seeking to conduct explorations within its territorial waters, the Sea of Sri Lanka.

The decision was confirmed by a senior government official who wished to remain anonymous.

Another Chinese state-of-the-art research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 is expected to conduct research from January to May next year in the Indian Ocean region, including the Sea of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

According to media reports, China has formally requested permission for the research vessel from Sri Lanka and Maldives. 

However, according to a recent report by the Hindustan Times, India has registered its strong objection to the vessel's planned activities, urging both island nations to deny entry.

It also reported that the vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 is currently off the coast of Xiamen in South China Sea and will travel via Malacca to these countries after securing permission.

Indian media outlets have openly accused China of using the research mission as a pretext for gathering intelligence under the guise of scientific exploration. 

The situation is further complicated by the recent political change in Maldives, where the newly elected President, Mohamed Muizzu has reportedly requested the departure of Indian military personnel stationed in the country.