• China respects independence and sovereignty of Sri Lanka
• Sri Lankan authorities lack capabilities to carry out research activities in Sri Lankan waters

By Kelum Bandara

Asserting that China is displeased over the bar on its research vessels in carrying out joint research activities in Sri Lankan waters, a top Chinese diplomat said that some countries consider it a diplomatic victory for them whereas it is not .

During an interactive dialogue with a group of journalists in the exhibition centre of Colombo Port City , Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese embassy Yanwei Zhu said there is wide concern raised by people on social media in China as to why Sri Lanka, as a friendly nation , took such a step .

Referring to it as a step done at the behest of a third party, he said though some countries consider it a diplomatic victory , China remains silent because it is not interesting in exploiting the difficult situation of Sri Lanka. 

He also said China respects independence and sovereignty of Sri Lanka.

“If it is an independent decision by Sri Lanka. There is rumour that it was done due to influence by other countries,” he said .

Besides , he said the Sri Lankan authorities lack capabilities to carry out such research and China stepped in to help . He said no other country had come forward to help in this manner .