Colombo: Sri Lanka has officially announced its refusal to allow Chinese ships to dock at its ports or operate within its exclusive economic zone. The decision comes in response to Bharat’s security concerns in the maritime sector.
The Prime Minister of Bharat conveyed the nation’s stance to Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, urging respect for Bharat’s security concerns in the maritime sector. This demand was raised during a meeting held six months ago, and the official position of Sri Lanka was communicated to Bharat shortly afterward.
China had sought permission from Sri Lanka for deep-water exploration in the Indian Ocean, citing the Chinese Scientific Research Vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3. This request covered the period from January to December of the current year. Bharat expressed objections to this move. Concerns were raised when the Chinese Scientific Research Vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 proposed a joint ocean survey with the Sri Lankan Maritime Agency in October and November.
In recent years, Chinese research ships, ballistic missile trackers, and hydrographic vessels have frequently conducted surveys in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This activity has faced opposition from Bharat and the United States. In the current situation, Sri Lankan authorities have taken a firm stance, deciding not to allow any Chinese ships in the Indian Ocean region.
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