The Foreign Ministry has received a request from the Chinese embassy for permission for another Chinese research vessel to enter Sri Lankan waters early next year.

The fresh request came less than a month after the arrival of the Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6, which received permission to enter Sri Lankan waters despite security concerns raised by India.

A Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson confirmed receiving the request from the Chinese embassy but stressed that “the request is yet to be processed”.

Shin Yan 6 engaged in marine-related research for two days from October 30 in designated areas of Western waters with the participation of local partners, the National Aquatic Research Agency (NARA), and the University of Ruhuna.

The fresh request is for Xiang Yang Hong 03, a vessel that engages in oceanographic surveys and research studies. Built in 2016, its current draught is reported to be 6.1 metres with a length of 99.8 metres and a width of 17.8 metres, according to Marine Traffic, a digital platform that tracks vessel movements.

The requested dates for the visit are reportedly from January 5 to February 20 next year, but the scope of the visit is yet to be finalised with the local partners, according to a source familiar with the developments.

(The Sunday Times)