A Chinese research vessel docked at the port of Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, on the 16th.
China says it is a marine research vessel, but neighboring India has been warned that it may be aimed at monitoring India's ballistic missiles.
According to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chinese research vessel "Yangbo No. 5" entered Hambantota port in southern Sri Lanka on the 16th.
The ship is intended for marine research and will be anchored for a while until the necessary supplies are completed.
On the other hand, Indian media reported that the purpose of this ship was to monitor the launch of Indian ballistic missiles and artificial satellites, and she also reported that she may scout the Indian Ocean area. I'm here.
The port of Hambantota, where the ship entered, was constructed based on China's mega-economic zone concept, "One Belt, One Road," but the operating rights were transferred to the Chinese side for 99 years due to delays in repayment of loans. I'm here.
In India, this port is located at a strategic point for sea lanes and sea lanes connecting Asia and the Middle East in the Indian Ocean. I'm feeling wary.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman ``marine research activities in line with international law''
At a press conference on the 16th, Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said at a press conference on the 16th that China's research vessel docked at a port in Sri Lanka, bearing in mind that India has a sense of caution. "We are conducting maritime research activities in accordance with international customs, do not affect the security or economic interests of any country, and are not subject to interference by third parties."