Gov’t Confirms No Research by Chinese Vessel in Upcoming Port Call

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3, en route to the Maldives, will not be conducting any research activities in Maldivian waters. 

In an official statement issued yesterday, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry disclosed that China had diplomatically requested the necessary clearances for the vessel to make a port call in Male’.

The clearance request, made for the rotation of personnel and replenishment purposes, does not involve research activities during the vessel’s stay in Maldivian waters, as clarified by the Foreign Ministry.

The Maldivian government emphasised its tradition of being a welcoming destination for vessels from friendly countries, both civilian and military, for peaceful purposes. The statement highlighted the positive impact of such port calls on bilateral ties and reiterated the commitment to international best practices and relevant maritime laws.

Media reports surrounding the upcoming arrival of the Chinese research vessel in early February prompted the official statement. However, the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has not provided any comments on the matter.

The presence of the Chinese research vessel is expected to draw attention in New Delhi, with concerns arising about its proximity to India’s shores. While these vessels are not classified as military ships, India and some other nations express apprehension over the potential military implications of their research activities.

This situation echoes a similar incident in 2022 when a Chinese research vessel sought a port call in Sri Lanka for deep-water explorations. Following objections from India, Colombo suspended permissions for such vessels to dock in its ports for a year.

Notably, the upcoming port call by Xiang Yang Hong 3 occurs a month after the Maldives terminated its agreement with India, which had allowed hydrographic surveys in Maldivian waters using Indian military vessels. The developments surrounding the Chinese research vessel’s visit continue to garner diplomatic attention in the region.