Chinese Navy Captain’s Explanation: The purpose of this visit is to promote regional peace and friendship

Colombo: Despite India’s protests, the Chinese cargo ship ‘Yuan Wong 5’ has anchored at Hambantota port in Sri Lanka. India has raised questions about the movement of this ship till August 22 when it is going to stay in Sri Lanka. However, the captain of the said ship said that this visit is intended for regional peace and friendship.

He clarified that it is not logical to think otherwise.

It was earlier decided that the ship will reach Sri Lanka on August 11. However, due to India’s objection, the Sri Lankan government requested China postpone the arrival date of the ship. However, the ship arrived at Hambantota port on Tuesday after receiving permission to stay from August 16 to 22.

Of course, the Sri Lankan government has imposed restrictions on the movement of these ships. The ship’s AIS (Automatic Identification System) has to be switched on till it is in Hambantota. On the contrary, the government of Sri Lanka has warned that the said ship cannot conduct any kind of scientific tests in the exclusive economic zone of Sri Lanka.