After days of dithering, Sri Lanka has permitted the docking of the chinese 'spy ship' Yuan Wang 5 at its port of Hambantota from 16 - 22 Aug.
Days after asking Beijing to defer the ship's visit, Sri Lanka took a U-turn to allow the Chinese ship to dock in the island's port. The vessel was about 900 km away from Hambantota when the clearance was given and is now moving slowly to the port.
Colombo has said that the India-China stand off always poses challenges to it because while India is its neighbour, China is its biggest lender. It is a difficult situation, indeed for the island nation!
Incidentally, Sri Lanka and Nepal had recently reaffirmed the One China policy. And in return for Nepal's support, Beijing has pledged $15 billion as grants in assistance for projects selected by the Nepal government in 2022.
However, on 15 Aug, a day before the Chinese ship reaches the Lankan port, an Indian Navy Dornier 228 surveillance aircraft will be inducted into the Sri Lankan Air Force. It's a gift from India and Indians will supervise the operation of the aircraft. The second aircraft will be bought and its cost is yet to be negotiated.
As the Indian Ocean region gains prominence, many countries will get active and try to expand their influence. There will be crises, we need to take care of our national interests but can't claim exclusivity in the region, so said our foreign minister.
Tailpiece.
Got up at 6, the chores and was ready by10. The maid had come to work and therefore, the day didn't feel like that it was a Sunday.
It was a quiet day. My moccasins, from Bata, reached me by evening.
Was really impressed with the extra fervour in celebrating the Independence Day, this time. Great!
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