August 13, 2022
1 min read

Lanka allows Chinese ship to dock at Hambantota despite India’s concerns

The Foreign Ministry announced that it has given permission for the Chinese vessel to be docked at the port on August 16, reports Asian Lite News

Amidst controversy and a diplomatic tussle between India and China, Sri Lanka on Saturday announced that it has allowed controversial Chinese vessel ‘Yuan Wang 5’ to dock at the island’s southern-most port, the Chinese-run Hambantota.

The Foreign Ministry announced that it has given permission for the vessel to be docked at the port on August 16.

Described as a research and survey vessel, but alleged to be a spy ship, the Chinese vessel was originally planned to reach Hambantota on August 11 but its arrival was deferred following Sri Lanka’s requested to postpone the arrival indefinitely.

When Sri Lanka requested a postponement of the arrival, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin protested and charged halting of the vessel from entering the Hambantota Port was “completely unjustified” and accused India, claiming “certain countries” put pressure on Sri Lanka, claiming “security concerns”.

On July 12, diplomatic clearance for the Chinese vessel to make a call at the Hambantota Port from August 11-17, for replenishment purposes, was conveyed by the Foreign Ministry to the Chinese Embassy in Colombo.

But following concerns by India and other political parties and experts, the Ministry communicated to the Chinese mission to defer the ship visit.

On Friday, India rejected claims that it has put pressure on Sri Lanka to not allow ‘Yuan Wang 5’ to visit Hambantota port.

“We reject categorically the ‘insinuation’ and such statement about India. Sri Lanka is a sovereign country and makes its own independent decisions,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said.

ALSO READ: India can regain influence in S.Asia through Sri Lanka

Previous Story

Pakistan to attend counter-terror drills in India

Next Story

UN Human rights chief due in Bangladesh

Latest from -Top News

TIES WITH CHINA: Is Bangladesh Going Lanka Way?

Plans for nine Special Economic Zones, including Chinese-developed sites in Chattogram and Chandpur, promise jobs but risk creating enclaves where Beijing’s economic priorities overshadow Bangladesh’s….reports Asian Lite News On a humid March

Khaleda Zia’s Son Return Looms as Yunus Faces Heat

The core question remains whether Rahman can provide leadership in politically turbulent times in Bangladesh….reports Asian Lite News Speculation is mounting in Bangladesh over the possible return of Tarique Rahman, son of

India Eyes Top 5 Spot in Global Entertainment

With focused investments, policy support, and infrastructural upgrades, India is on track to position itself as one of the top five live entertainment destinations globally by 2030…reports Asian Lite News Fueled by
Go toTop

Don't Miss

US, India discuss expanding collaboration at 2+2 talks

The US officials, Assistant Secretary Lu and Principal Deputy Assistant

‘US Sees India As Strategic Partner and Key Global Player’

The ministers of both countries discussed the ongoing conflicts in