Berthing Chinese research vessels in Sri Lanka ports: India points to security sensitivity

• Matter raised during AKD’s visit to New Delhi  
• Sri Lanka looking at this issue  
• Says AKD was upfront in saying that SL territory won’t allow to be used for any impact on India  
• Modi accepts invitation to visit SL, calls for implementation of 13A  
• India expresses willingness to consider Sri Lanka’s application to join BRICS
• Sri Lanka currently has a one-year moratorium on research vessels 

By Kelum Bandara

In an obvious reference to the berthing of Chinese research vessels in the Sri Lankan ports during engagements with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his visit in New Delhi, India pointed to what it called ‘importance and sensitivity’ of it to its security interests.  

Addressing a special press briefing in New Delhi which was live-streamed, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, “Our understanding is that Sri Lanka is looking at this issue. There are a number of considerations that they need to take into account. We did highlight from our perspective the role that India could play in a number of activities related to maritime security, research etc. We pointed to the importance and sensitivity of our security interests in this regard. President Dissanayake was upfront in saying that he would ensure that nothing was done by using Sri Lankan territory that might impact India’s security. We will continue to engage with Sri Lanka on all these issues,” he said these remarks in response to a question.  

Sri Lanka has currently imposed a moratorium on research vessels for one year, a decision taken by the previous government. The period is now about to expire.  

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the invitation extended by President Dissanayake to visit Sri Lanka at an early date. According to him, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the need for effective, meaningful implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution and the conduct of the Provincial Council election.  
Besides, he said India will certainly look into Sri Lanka’s interest in joining BRICS when a consensus is reached for the expansion of its membership. Sri Lanka has sought to join BRICS (Acronym for its founder members Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).