In a move likely to ruffle feathers in New Delhi, a Chinese research vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 03, has entered the Maldivian waters and is likely set to dock in the capital Male on Thursday, further straining the already tense relationship between India and the island nation.
Classified as a research vessel engaged in seabed mapping and mineral exploration, the 4,300-ton behemoth, belonging to China's Third Institute of Oceanography, has triggered concerns within the Indian Navy due to its potential dual utility.
As Admiral R Kumar, Navy Chief, aptly pointed out in a recent interview, "charting underwater regions may have military applications as well, in terms of submarine deployment and operations."
Adding fuel to the fire, the vessel's erratic zigzag voyage between the Maldives and Sri Lanka has raised eyebrows in New Delhi.
This development comes amidst a growing frost in India-Maldives relations, following the new Maldivian government's demand for the removal of Indian military personnel stationed for humanitarian operations.
Coupled with China's expanding influence in the Indian Ocean Region, the Xiang Yang Hong 03's arrival has sent alarm bells ringing in New Delhi.
The Maldivian foreign ministry had earlier said the Chinese Research Vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 will "not be conducting any research while in the Maldivian waters” and that the ship will solely undertake "rotation and replenishment."
However, sources in the Indian defence establishment maintained that New Delhi is keeping a close watch on the movement of the ship.
The permission to allow the Chinese vessel comes amid strains in ties between India and Maldives after its new President Mohamed Muizzu came to power and made Beijing as his first port of call early this month after assuming office. Traditionally, New Delhi has been the first port of call for a Maldivian President.
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