Chinese military ship docks at Colombo Port for a ‘formal’ visit

Source: The post is based on the article “Chinese military ship docks at Colombo Port for a ‘formal’ visit”  published in The Hindu on 12th August 2023.

What is the News?

A Chinese warship, the Hai Yang 24 Hao, has arrived in Sri Lanka and will be docked at the Colombo Port.

This visit comes after India-Sri Lanka ties had witnessed tensions in the wake of the Chinese warship’s visit to Hambantota Port in 2022. India and the U.S had voiced concern over the ship’s visit. 

Why is India concerned with the Chinese Ship in Sri Lanka?

Firstly, Chinese Ship in Sri Lanka means that several ports in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh could be on China’s radar. Reports have claimed that several vital installations in South India could be under threat of being snooped upon.

Secondly, Chinese ship in the Colombo Port fits right into China’s ‘string of pearls’ strategy to surround India in the Indian Ocean through increasing land and maritime footprint.

What has been China’s response to India’s concerns?

China had reacted strongly following concerns voiced by India. It has said that 

Firstly, Sri Lanka is a transportation hub in the Indian Ocean. Scientific research vessels from various countries including China have made port calls in Sri Lanka for replenishment.

Second, Sri Lanka is a sovereign country. It has the right to develop relations with other countries based on its development interests. To have normal cooperation is the independent choice made by our two countries. It serves the shared interests of both sides and does not target any third party.