Chinese Research Vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 Anchored Near Male’ City
The Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03, which has been at the center of regional controversy, is presently anchored near Male’ City.
According to data from the Marine Traffic website, the vessel was observed near Male’ City earlier this morning before shifting its location towards Thilafushi around noon.
In a statement issued late January, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that permission for the vessel to dock had been granted following a diplomatic request from the Chinese government. The request cited the need for port access for replenishment and rotation of personnel.
Clarifying concerns, officials emphasised that the vessel will not engage in any survey activities within Maldivian waters while docked.
Highlighting the nation’s policy on port calls, the statement underscored Maldives’ open stance towards visits by both civilian and military vessels from friendly nations, citing their role in bolstering bilateral ties.
Despite being a non-military vessel, apprehensions raised by India and other nations revolve around the potential dual-use of data collected by the vessel for both civilian and military purposes.
In response to mounting pressure, Sri Lanka imposed a ban on the vessel from docking at its ports and further restricted entry for Chinese research vessels into its economic zone for a period of one year.