India has formally communicated diplomatic apprehensions to both Sri Lanka and Maldives regarding a Chinese research vessel’s upcoming mission for deep-water exploration in the South Indian Ocean. The Chinese Research Survey Vessel Shi Yan 6 recently completed its survey off the coast of Sri Lanka, reaching Singapore on December 2.
Beijing has subsequently sought permission from Colombo and Male to permit another Research Survey Vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 03, to dock at their ports and conduct deep-water exploration in the South Indian Ocean from January 5 until late May 2024.
As reported by the Hindustan Times, India has already raised objections with both Sri Lanka and Maldives, urging them not to grant permission for the Chinese vessel’s exploration in the Indian Ocean, citing concerns about potential military implications in the future.
The Hindustan Times report notes that the Xiang Yang Hong 03 is currently situated off the coast of Xiamen in the South China Sea and will proceed via Malacca to the designated countries once approval is secured.
The report states, “The Indian concerns over Chinese ballistic missile trackers and Research Surveillance Ships being allowed by Sri Lanka and, now with a pro-China government in Maldives, are over Beijing using these vessels to spy on India in the name of marine exploration.”
Source – Hindustan Times
