A Chinese “research vessel” has entered the waters of the Maldives, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday. The ‘Xiang Yang Hong 03’, classified as a research vessel, is reportedly mapping the floor of the Indian Ocean amid security concerns raised by New Delhi.
India has been keeping a close eye on the movement of the ship amid concerns over the movement of the Chinese vessel that India suspects could be used for “spying” purposes. “We always keep a close eye on developments which impact our economic as well as security interests and take necessary steps to safeguard them when required,” said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly presser on February 1.
This comes as defence experts say China is expanding in both the number and size of its so-called China Marine Research Vessels, a national survey fleet established in 2012. The presence of the Chinese ship in Male waters also comes amid strained relations between India and Maldives after President Mohamed Muizzu came to power. Muizzu, who campaigned on an anti-India platform, visited China last month before visiting India for the election.
An earlier statement by the Maldives foreign ministry said that “a diplomatic request was made by the government of China to the government of Maldives, for the necessary clearances to make a port call, for rotation of personnel and replenishment.” The statement said the Chinese ship won’t be conducting any research while docked in Male port. “The Maldives has always been a welcoming destination for vessels of friendly countries, and continues to host both civilian and military vessels making port calls for peaceful purposes,” it said.
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