In a recent development, the United States has expressed its concern to Sri Lanka about the impending arrival of a Chinese research vessel, raising similar concerns shared by India. During a meeting between US Under Secretary and Sri Lankan Foreign Minister at the UN General Assembly session in New York, the topic of the Chinese research ship ‘Shi Yan 6’ came to the forefront.

• The Chinese research vessel ‘Shi Yan 6’ has stirred concerns due to its upcoming visit to Sri Lanka, with both the US and India voicing objections.
• The ship is described as a “scientific research vessel” equipped with a 60-member crew, conducting research in oceanography, marine geology, and marine ecology. While Beijing sought Colombo’s permission for the ship’s docking, the final date and port remain uncertain.
• The vessel is expected to collaborate with Sri Lanka’s National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) during its stay.