Colombo: The Sri Lankan government is facing confusion over whether to grant permission to a Chinese research vessel, the Shi Yan 6, to conduct an ocean survey off the coast of the island nation in October.
The vessel is owned by the China Geological Survey and is equipped with a variety of scientific instruments, including a submersible vehicle that can dive to depths of up to 6,000 meters. The survey’s stated purpose is to study the geology and marine life of the area.
However, the vessel’s arrival has been met with concerns from India, which is Sri Lanka’s closest neighbor. Indian officials have expressed concerns that the survey could be used for military purposes, such as mapping the seabed for submarine deployment.
The Sri Lankan government has so far not made a decision on whether to grant permission to the vessel. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that it is “considering all relevant factors” before making a decision.
The confusion over the Shi Yan 6 is a further sign of the growing rivalry between India and China in the Indian Ocean region. India is concerned about China’s growing military presence in the region, and is wary of any Chinese activity that could be seen as a threat to its security.
The Sri Lankan government is caught in the middle of this rivalry. It is reliant on Chinese loans and investment, but it also wants to maintain good relations with India. The decision on whether to grant permission to the Shi Yan 6 will be a delicate one for the Sri Lankan government.
In addition to the concerns raised by India, there are also environmental concerns about the Shi Yan 6’s survey. The vessel is equipped with a powerful sonar system that could potentially disturb marine life. Environmental groups have called on the Sri Lankan government to ensure that the survey is conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.
The confusion over the Shi Yan 6 is a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Indian Ocean region. The decision on whether to grant permission to the vessel is a test for the Sri Lankan government, and its decision could have implications for the region’s security and environment.tuneshareGoogle itmore_vertadd_circle