Yuan Wang 5 visit-a normal activity in Sino-Lanka ties: Chinese envoy

 Pic by Dileep Jayasekera

• The ship was allowed to be docked on condition that it won’t carry out any research activities in Sri Lankan waters

 By Kelum Bandara  

The Chinese science and research vessel ‘ The Yuan Wang 5’ was berthed in the Hambantota port yesterday after controversy that swirled around it, following India raising security concerns.  

The ship was allowed to be docked on condition that it won’t carry out any research activities in Sri Lankan waters.   
Also, the Automatic Identification System (AIS) of the ship should be switched on within the Sri Lankan waters.   

Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong who spoke to the media after the ceremony to mark the event said that such port calls were a normal activity in relations between Sri Lanka and China. He said a similar port call took place in 2014.  

Harbour Master Nirmal Silva said the ship could stay till August 22 though it had indicated to leave by the evening of August 19. 

• The ship could stay till August 22 though it had indicated to leave by the evening of August 19