The government of Sri Lanka has allowed the Yuan Wang-5 ship, which is a Chinese-owned satellite tracking and intercontinental ballistic missile tracking ship, which has attracted diplomatic attention, to enter the port of Hambantota.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that arrangements have been made to enter Hambantota Port for refueling from August 16 to 22.
However, as per the instructions of the Ministry of Defense, the Government of Sri Lanka has issued several conditions regarding how the ship should operate during the time it is anchored in the Sri Lankan port.
It has been emphasized that no scientific research should be done in the sea of this country.
And the ministry has reiterated Sri Lanka’s policy of cooperation and friendship with all countries.
The government has emphasized to the Chinese ship that the security and cooperation of the neighboring area is of utmost priority and it is Sri Lanka’s intention to protect the legitimate interests of all countries in accordance with its international obligations.
Especially at this moment when the country is facing severe economic challenges and engaging in several local processes to ensure the welfare of the Sri Lankan people, the Ministry has recalled the support, cooperation and understanding of all countries.
According to media reports, India is concerned about the investigations that may be conducted during the ship’s arrival in the country.
Reports state that Sri Lanka today gave the necessary clearance to the Yuan Wang-5 to arrive at Hambantota port on the 16th, a day after India reiterated its security concerns over the vessel’s scheduled arrival on the 11th.
Meanwhile, a Donier 228 maritime patrol aircraft belonging to the Indian Air Force is to be handed over to the Sri Lankan Air Force from the 15th.
Sri Lanka Air Force says that another aircraft will be donated within two years.
Indian reports also stated that the aircraft is expected to be handed over in a ceremony in front of President Ranil Wickremesinghe on August 15.
This is also said to be in response to a request by the Sri Lankan government to India in 2018 for two Donier surveillance aircraft to enhance the country’s maritime surveillance capabilities.
