President Wickremesinghe navigating the Geopolitical Tightrope

In a world of international relations defined by power  rivalries and shifting alliances, Sri Lanka stands resolute in its  pursuit of non-interference in its foreign relations and taking a  neutral approach. President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent statements in  New York at the ‘Ocean Nations: The 3rd Annual Indo-Pacific Islands  Dialogue’ on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, shed light on his  foreign policy stance and commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s  interests above all else.
  
President Wickremesinghe underscored the reluctance of  island nations in the Indian Ocean and South Pacific to become embroiled  in the rivalry between major world powers. These nations, including Sri  Lanka, focus on their own priorities—social, economic, and ecological  development—and are committed to maintaining their sovereignty and  independence.  
What stands out prominently is President Wickremesinghe’s  assertion that Sri Lanka does not align itself with any major power, be  it India or China. Instead, the country’s foreign policy is rooted in  being “pro Sri Lanka.”  
The President’s stance on the Hambantota Port issue is  commendable. He expressed concerns over the labelling of the port as a  ‘Chinese military base’ asserting that it is a commercial port with  security entrusted to the Sri Lanka Navy while also highlighting Sri  Lanka’s cooperation with India on developing the Trincomalee harbour. It  is noteworthy that the President said he would ask the Non-Aligned  Movement (NAM) to inquire into whether there is a Chinese military base  or a commercial harbour in Hambantota and clarify the matter. This  demonstrates Sri Lanka’s commitment to maintaining a balance in its  relationships with major powers.  

He also dismissed reports of Chinese spy ships, clarifying  them as research vessels operating under a longstanding agreement. On  this matter, he said that Standard Operating Procedures have been set up  by the Sri Lanka Navy and recently there were discussions with India and  all their amendments have been taken in. He was clear that any ship that  would come in now would do so under a procedure that has been done  together with India. He asserted that he could not see any ship that would  come in under this operating procedure being a threat to anyone.   
Amidst the backdrop of great power competition, President  Wickremesinghe recognizes the unique priorities of island nations,  driven by domestic needs and aspirations rather than the objectives of  the Quad or China’s ambitions. He said Sri Lanka is open to  collaboration with partners who respect its autonomy, demonstrating a  pragmatic approach to international relations.  
The Indian Ocean and the South Pacific hold immense  strategic value, given their historical significance. President  Wickremesinghe highlighted their role in past conflicts and global power  balances, underlining the imperative for Sri Lanka and other island  nations to safeguard their interests.  
The Indo-Pacific concept has gained recognition due to  China’s rise, prompting a re-evaluation of regional dynamics and  cooperation. President Wickremesinghe notes efforts to involve European  powers and NATO in the Indo-Pacific have faced opposition due to their  potential to undermine existing regional frameworks. President  Wickremesinghe emphasized that Sri Lanka does not seek military  activities in its vicinity, echoing the sentiments of most countries in  the region.  

President Wickremesinghe commented on the Aukus security  pact between Australia, Britain, and the US, describing it as “a  mistake,” and criticized it for being a military alliance aimed at  China. He deems it unnecessary, reflecting a neutral stance on  international affairs.  
He also expresses skepticism about the term “Indo-Pacific,”  referring to it as an “artificial framework.” This highlights the  varying interpretations of its geographic boundaries, reflecting  President Wickremesinghe’s discerning approach.  
The President’s insightful analysis of the Sino-US rivalry,  which has evolved from the Western Pacific into the Indian Ocean and  South Pacific, raises essential questions about Sri Lanka’s role and the  need to safeguard its interests amidst geopolitical shifts.  

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s comments in New York and  Sri Lanka’s assumption of the Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association  (IORA) demonstrate the country’s commitment to an independent foreign  policy stance. In a world marked by great power rivalries and shifting  alliances, President Wickremesinghe’s approach is commendable and shows  diplomatic wisdom and strategic maturity. President Wickremesinghe’s  leadership on the global stage should be acknowledged as Sri Lanka  navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, safeguarding its interests  while advocating for regional cooperation and stability.