Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage.

"China strongly condemns and firmly rejects this wanton and provocative action," a foreign ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

"China calls on Lithuania to immediately stop undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stop creating difficulty for bilateral relations," they added.

Two Baltic Sea telecommunications cables were severed last month in Swedish territorial waters, including one running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lithuania-kicks-out-three-chinese-embassy-staff-amidst-tensions-over-taiwan-780353">Also read:&nbsp;Lithuania kicks out three Chinese embassy staff amidst tensions over Taiwan</a>

Suspicions have been directed at a Chinese ship -- the Yi Peng 3 -- which tracking sites said had sailed over the cables around the time they were cut.

On Friday, Lithuania's foreign ministry said three Chinese staff members "have been declared undesirable in the country".

The ministry did not give the precise reasons for the expulsion, citing only "activities which violate the Vienna Convention and the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania".

On Wednesday, Lithuania said it was setting up a joint team with Sweden and Finland to investigate the damaged cables, with the support of Eurojust, the European Union's agency for criminal justice cooperation.

China has denied any responsibility in the matter and said Friday it was "willing to work" with a probe.

Ties between Vilnius and Beijing had already been tense after Lithuania in 2021 allowed Taiwan to open a de facto embassy under the island's name.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, on Monday accused Vilnius of "acting in serious violation of the one-China principle".

"This has caused severe difficulty for bilateral ties," the spokesperson said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage.

Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage. "China strongly condemns and firmly rejects this wanton and provocative action," a foreign ministry spokesperson said in a statement. "China calls on Lithuania to immediately stop undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stop creating difficulty for bilateral relations," they added. Two Baltic Sea telecommunications cables were severed last month in Swedish territorial waters, including one running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania. Also read: Lithuania kicks out three Chinese embassy staff amidst tensions over Taiwan Suspicions have been directed at a Chinese ship -- the Yi Peng 3 -- which tracking sites said had sailed over the cables around the time they were cut. On Friday, Lithuania's foreign ministry said three Chinese staff members "have been declared undesirable in the country". The ministry did not give the precise reasons for the expulsion, citing only "activities which violate the Vienna Convention and the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania". On Wednesday, Lithuania said it was setting up a joint team with Sweden and Finland to investigate the damaged cables, with the support of Eurojust, the European Union's agency for criminal justice cooperation. China has denied any responsibility in the matter and said Friday it was "willing to work" with a probe. Ties between Vilnius and Beijing had already been tense after Lithuania in 2021 allowed Taiwan to open a de facto embassy under the island's name. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, on Monday accused Vilnius of "acting in serious violation of the one-China principle". "This has caused severe difficulty for bilateral ties," the spokesperson said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China warns retaliation after Lithuania expels three embassy staffers, says could take 'countermeasures'

Sri Lanka has allowed a Chinese naval vessel to dock in its waters, despite the ongoing ban on foreign research vessels. The timing of it is raising questions if this is a coincidence or a worrying sign for India. The development comes just days after India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar met new Sri Lankan president Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo.

Sri Lanka Govt Uses Deception to Permit Chinese Ship to Dock

A Chinese dual-use survey ship will enter Male seaport today (Thursday) for rotation of personnel and replenishment. This comes at a time when ties are strained between India and Maldives.

Chinese spy ship to enter Male seaport, Indian Navy keeps a watch

The state-of-the-art Chinese research vessel, Shin Yan 6, made its way to the Port of Colombo on October 25. Sri Lanka has granted the vessel a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shin-yan-6-sri-lanka-allows-48-hour-research-window-to-chinese-vessel-amid-spy-concerns-652733">48-hour research window</a> along its west coast.&nbsp;While there are suspicions that this vessel has ties to espionage, India has been closely monitoring its activities for a while.

Sri Lanka's decision to permit marine research activities under surveillance is a direct response to India's previous security concerns related to China's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and its strategic influence in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The precarious situation in which Sri Lanka finds itself also prompts questions about the country's obligations to China and its inability to reject Chinese demands.

China's history of surveillance has not been without ambiguities. There consistently seems to be a dual purpose associated with Chinese instruments and research initiatives.

"The Chinese civilian and military boundaries are very thin, and often blurred. A handy example is the balloon that veered of limits, entering into US airspace and then it being shot down subsequently," Dr Anand P Krishnan, Fellow, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Delhi NCR, and Visiting Associate Fellow, Institute of Chinese Studies told WION.&nbsp;

"While the Chinese claimed it was a weather mapping balloon and it being used for experiments, the fact that it veered of course considerably gave enough ground to suspect it being used for surveillance," he says.

Regarding Sri Lanka, China seems to be pursuing a more comprehensive diplomatic agenda.

In terms of the economy, China holds the position of being Sri Lanka's largest lender. Just earlier this month, after more than a year since Sri Lanka found itself in an economic crisis, an agreement was reached with the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of China to cover approximately $4.2 billion of Sri Lanka's outstanding debt, as confirmed by a statement from the country's finance ministry on October 11.

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China's lending practices to less affluent nations have often&nbsp;come under scrutiny, with accusations that they&nbsp;leave the borrower countries struggling to repay debts and consequently more susceptible to pressure from Beijing.

During an interview with the BBC, Richard Moore, who leads Britain's foreign intelligence agency MI6, mentioned that China employs what he referred to as "dept traps" to acquire influence over other nations.

The assertion is that China extends loans to other countries, and if these nations fail to meet their debt obligations, they are compelled to relinquish control of significant assets. This accusation has long been refuted by Beijing.

One frequently mentioned example by critics of China is Sri Lanka, which initiated a substantial port project in Hambantota with Chinese funding several years ago. However, the billion-dollar project, funded by Chinese loans and executed by Chinese contractors, became embroiled in controversy and struggled to demonstrate its viability, resulting in Sri Lanka accumulating substantial debts.

Ultimately, in 2017, Sri Lanka consented to grant a 70 per cent&nbsp;controlling stake in the port to China Merchants, a state-owned entity, on a 99-year lease in exchange for additional Chinese investment.

In the case of&nbsp;Shi Yan&nbsp;6, we can see how these crafty tactics are playing out.

"This notes the expanding role of the Chinese navy beyond its immediate neighbourhood. At the same time, such happenings also show the intricate ways China and Sri Lankan bilateral relations are tied. The economic crisis in Lanka and its dependency on Beijing for its infrastructure projects ties it further to China, helping the latter have leverage," Dr Krishnan notes.

Also watch this report

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China's Exim Bank is offering support in the process of restructuring Sri Lanka's debt to aid the country in overcoming its economic crisis. Additionally, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe travelled to Beijing to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum, which commemorated the initiative's ten-year anniversary.

"While Colombo is discomfited in treading a thin line between Delhi and Beijing, expect such situations and happenings to continue if not entirely intensify in the days to come," Dr Krishnan adds.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The state-of-the-art Chinese research vessel, Shin Yan 6, made its way to the Port of Colombo on October 25. Sri Lanka has granted the vessel a 48-hour research window along its west coast.

The state-of-the-art Chinese research vessel, Shin Yan 6, made its way to the Port of Colombo on October 25. Sri Lanka has granted the vessel a 48-hour research window along its west coast. While there are suspicions that this vessel has ties to espionage, India has been closely monitoring its activities for a while. Sri Lanka's decision to permit marine research activities under surveillance is a direct response to India's previous security concerns related to China's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and its strategic influence in Sri Lanka. The precarious situation in which Sri Lanka finds itself also prompts questions about the country's obligations to China and its inability to reject Chinese demands. China's history of surveillance has not been without ambiguities. There consistently seems to be a dual purpose associated with Chinese instruments and research initiatives. "The Chinese civilian and military boundaries are very thin, and often blurred. A handy example is the balloon that veered of limits, entering into US airspace and then it being shot down subsequently," Dr Anand P Krishnan, Fellow, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Delhi NCR, and Visiting Associate Fellow, Institute of Chinese Studies told WION. "While the Chinese claimed it was a weather mapping balloon and it being used for experiments, the fact that it veered of course considerably gave enough ground to suspect it being used for surveillance," he says. Regarding Sri Lanka, China seems to be pursuing a more comprehensive diplomatic agenda. In terms of the economy, China holds the position of being Sri Lanka's largest lender. Just earlier this month, after more than a year since Sri Lanka found itself in an economic crisis, an agreement was reached with the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of China to cover approximately $4.2 billion of Sri Lanka's outstanding debt, as confirmed by a statement from the country's finance ministry on October 11. × China's lending practices to less affluent nations have often come under scrutiny, with accusations that they leave the borrower countries struggling to repay debts and consequently more susceptible to pressure from Beijing. During an interview with the BBC, Richard Moore, who leads Britain's foreign intelligence agency MI6, mentioned that China employs what he referred to as "dept traps" to acquire influence over other nations. The assertion is that China extends loans to other countries, and if these nations fail to meet their debt obligations, they are compelled to relinquish control of significant assets. This accusation has long been refuted by Beijing. One frequently mentioned example by critics of China is Sri Lanka, which initiated a substantial port project in Hambantota with Chinese funding several years ago. However, the billion-dollar project, funded by Chinese loans and executed by Chinese contractors, became embroiled in controversy and struggled to demonstrate its viability, resulting in Sri Lanka accumulating substantial debts. Ultimately, in 2017, Sri Lanka consented to grant a 70 per cent controlling stake in the port to China Merchants, a state-owned entity, on a 99-year lease in exchange for additional Chinese investment. In the case of Shi Yan 6, we can see how these crafty tactics are playing out. "This notes the expanding role of the Chinese navy beyond its immediate neighbourhood. At the same time, such happenings also show the intricate ways China and Sri Lankan bilateral relations are tied. The economic crisis in Lanka and its dependency on Beijing for its infrastructure projects ties it further to China, helping the latter have leverage," Dr Krishnan notes. Also watch this report China's Exim Bank is offering support in the process of restructuring Sri Lanka's debt to aid the country in overcoming its economic crisis. Additionally, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe travelled to Beijing to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum, which commemorated the initiative's ten-year anniversary. "While Colombo is discomfited in treading a thin line between Delhi and Beijing, expect such situations and happenings to continue if not entirely intensify in the days to come," Dr Krishnan adds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | Shin Yan 6 in question: Is China arm-twisting Sri Lanka to comply with its demands?

The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal. The Chinese-owned seismic survey vessel entered the Indian Ocean region through the Malacca Strait on the night of December 29 last year and is undertaking oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's EEZ since January. The exploration will complete in May 2023.

Sources told Wion that, "There have been no instances of the ship undertaking any type of research activity within the Indian EEZ &amp; the Chinese vessel is being continuously monitored by the Indian Navy."

Last August, a Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5 docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port irking New Delhi. Sri Lanka has since then been working on a standard operating procedure to make sure such incidents are not repeated.

As China's presence in the Indian Ocean continues to increase, the Indian Navy has intensified&nbsp;monitoring activities. The Chinese vessels have been found engaging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region, and China's only overseas navy base is in Djibouti.

As things stand right now, with increased Chinese presence in the Indian ocean, the Indian Navy is expected to significantly step up its maritime presence and surveillance. Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) based in Gurugram also keeps an eye on the movements in the Indian ocean and is involved in early mobilisation of resources in case of any crisis. IFC-IOR was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. 
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal.

The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal. The Chinese-owned seismic survey vessel entered the Indian Ocean region through the Malacca Strait on the night of December 29 last year and is undertaking oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's EEZ since January. The exploration will complete in May 2023. Sources told Wion that, "There have been no instances of the ship undertaking any type of research activity within the Indian EEZ & the Chinese vessel is being continuously monitored by the Indian Navy." Last August, a Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5 docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port irking New Delhi. Sri Lanka has since then been working on a standard operating procedure to make sure such incidents are not repeated. As China's presence in the Indian Ocean continues to increase, the Indian Navy has intensified monitoring activities. The Chinese vessels have been found engaging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region, and China's only overseas navy base is in Djibouti. As things stand right now, with increased Chinese presence in the Indian ocean, the Indian Navy is expected to significantly step up its maritime presence and surveillance. Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) based in Gurugram also keeps an eye on the movements in the Indian ocean and is involved in early mobilisation of resources in case of any crisis. IFC-IOR was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indian Navy monitors Chinese vessel carrying out oil and gas exploration near Bangladesh

China's Ambassador to Sri Lanka alleged that Colombo was "unreasonably pressured" to cancel the docking permit to a Chinese ship. The Indian mission in Colombo has hit back. It referred to the "militarisation of Taiwan" in a statement. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India hits back at China's Envoy to Sri Lanka

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island. International shipping and analytics websites refer to the Yuan Wang 5 as a research and survey vessel, however, Indian media describes it as a dual-purpose espionage ship.

Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and influence in Sri Lanka raise suspicion in New Delhi, which sees both as firmly within its area of influence. The Chinese-run Hambantota port in Sri Lanka was scheduled to receive the Yuan Wang 5 on August 11, but Colombo requested Beijing to postpone the visit indefinitely after India raised concerns. Sri Lanka's harbour master Nirmal P. Silva, however, claimed that he had obtained permission from the foreign ministry for the ship to call in Hambantota from August 16 to 22.

According to officials in the foreign ministry, Colombo had extended the first clearance for the visit, which had been given on July 12—the day before the former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after months of unrest over the nation's worst-ever economic crisis. After escaping to Singapore, Rajapaksa—whose brother Mahinda borrowed extensively from China while serving as president from 2005 to 2015—resigned.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-study-reveals-arctic-warming-four-times-and-svalbard-seven-times-faster-than-rest-of-planet-506160">In pics: Study reveals Arctic warming four times and Svalbard seven times faster than rest of planet</a>

Following accusations of poor leadership during an economic crisis that resulted in severe shortages of food, fuel, and medications, tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied Rajapaksa's palace and residence in Colombo. On Friday night, according to port officials, the Chinese ship was roughly 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) southeast of Sri Lanka and slowly making its way into the Hambantota deep sea port.

Sri Lanka paid less than the $1.4 billion to a Chinese company to build the port, and leased it to China for 99 years for $1.12 billion. Indian reports claim that the Yuan Wang 5 has specialised applications for intercontinental ballistic missile launches and may be used for tracking satellites and spacecraft.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island.

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island. International shipping and analytics websites refer to the Yuan Wang 5 as a research and survey vessel, however, Indian media describes it as a dual-purpose espionage ship. Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and influence in Sri Lanka raise suspicion in New Delhi, which sees both as firmly within its area of influence. The Chinese-run Hambantota port in Sri Lanka was scheduled to receive the Yuan Wang 5 on August 11, but Colombo requested Beijing to postpone the visit indefinitely after India raised concerns. Sri Lanka's harbour master Nirmal P. Silva, however, claimed that he had obtained permission from the foreign ministry for the ship to call in Hambantota from August 16 to 22. According to officials in the foreign ministry, Colombo had extended the first clearance for the visit, which had been given on July 12—the day before the former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after months of unrest over the nation's worst-ever economic crisis. After escaping to Singapore, Rajapaksa—whose brother Mahinda borrowed extensively from China while serving as president from 2005 to 2015—resigned. Also Read: In pics: Study reveals Arctic warming four times and Svalbard seven times faster than rest of planet Following accusations of poor leadership during an economic crisis that resulted in severe shortages of food, fuel, and medications, tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied Rajapaksa's palace and residence in Colombo. On Friday night, according to port officials, the Chinese ship was roughly 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) southeast of Sri Lanka and slowly making its way into the Hambantota deep sea port. Sri Lanka paid less than the $1.4 billion to a Chinese company to build the port, and leased it to China for 99 years for $1.12 billion. Indian reports claim that the Yuan Wang 5 has specialised applications for intercontinental ballistic missile launches and may be used for tracking satellites and spacecraft. (with inputs from agencies)

Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship

According to reports, the Chinese satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5 will not&nbsp;be docking at&nbsp;Hambantota port as it won't be reaching on Thursday as scheduled.

Reports emanating from Sri Lanka said ships cannot enter the Hambantota port without permission. The development comes after India expressed concerns over the Chinese ships due to security concerns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-defers-visit-of-chinas-satellite-tracking-ship-to-hambantota-port-504215">Also Read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka defers visit of China's satellite tracking ship to Hambantota port</a>

The Chinese vessel was due to arrive at Hambantota port on August 11 till August 17. The ship had reportedly set sail on July 14 from the Chinese port of Jiangyin. Reports claim Sri Lankan authorities urged Chinese officials to indefinitely delay the ship's entry into the port.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sri Lanka urges China to not dock at Hambantota port

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Reports say the high-tech space and satellite tracking ship built in 2007 can also launch intercontinental ballistic missiles. India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it was "monitoring" the situation after the Lankan government announced it had allowed the ship to enter Hambantota port. The Lankan government had said the Chinese vessel was due to refuel and replenish supplies at the port.

As Sri Lanka sought to defer the entry of the Chinese vessel, reports claimed it had reached near Hambantota, however, the ship&nbsp;changed directions later. There has been no announcement on whether the Chinese vessel will be allowed to enter Hambantota port. The Lankan government had granted approval for the ship to enter the port last month, however, earlier this week the government informed the Chinese embassy in Colombo to defer the ship's arrival.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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According to reports, the Chinese satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5 will not be docking at Hambantota port as it won't be reaching on Thursday as scheduled. Reports emanating from Sri Lanka said ships cannot enter the Hambantota port without permission.

According to reports, the Chinese satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5 will not be docking at Hambantota port as it won't be reaching on Thursday as scheduled. Reports emanating from Sri Lanka said ships cannot enter the Hambantota port without permission. The development comes after India expressed concerns over the Chinese ships due to security concerns. Also Read: Sri Lanka defers visit of China's satellite tracking ship to Hambantota port The Chinese vessel was due to arrive at Hambantota port on August 11 till August 17. The ship had reportedly set sail on July 14 from the Chinese port of Jiangyin. Reports claim Sri Lankan authorities urged Chinese officials to indefinitely delay the ship's entry into the port. Watch: Sri Lanka urges China to not dock at Hambantota port Reports say the high-tech space and satellite tracking ship built in 2007 can also launch intercontinental ballistic missiles. India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it was "monitoring" the situation after the Lankan government announced it had allowed the ship to enter Hambantota port. The Lankan government had said the Chinese vessel was due to refuel and replenish supplies at the port. As Sri Lanka sought to defer the entry of the Chinese vessel, reports claimed it had reached near Hambantota, however, the ship changed directions later. There has been no announcement on whether the Chinese vessel will be allowed to enter Hambantota port. The Lankan government had granted approval for the ship to enter the port last month, however, earlier this week the government informed the Chinese embassy in Colombo to defer the ship's arrival. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's satellite tracking ship won't be arriving at Hambantota port: Report

According to reports, the Sri Lankan government has asked China to defer the arrival of&nbsp;Yuan Wang 5 ship at Hambantota port.

The Chinese space-satellite tracker ship was set to refuel at the Lankan port. The ship built in 2007 can also be used in intercontinental ballistic missile launch&nbsp;with wide aerial scope to track regions with a parameter of 750 kms. Reports claimed Sri Lanka has deferred the ship's arrival until further consultations with Chinese authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-raises-concern-over-chinas-vessels-proposed-visit-to-sri-lankas-hambantota-port-report-502820">Also Read:&nbsp;India raises concern over Chinese vessel’s proposed visit&nbsp;</a>

India had earlier raised concerns over China's decision to station the ship on Hambantota port. The strategic port was leased to a Chinese company by Sri Lanka after it failed to pay its loans. China has consistently denied that Sri Lanka has been clamped into a debt trap even as there has been virtually no economic activity in Hambantota.

Watch:&nbsp;Sri Lanka wants its 'debt trap' Hambantota port back

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Sri Lanka is currently battling the worst economic crisis in its history with sky high&nbsp;inflation and acute shortage of fuel and electricity.

Earlier this week, police in India's southern state of Tamil Nadu had beefed up coastal security as the Chinese vessel was set to reach Hambantota. The Sri Lankan defence ministry had announced the arrival of the ship which&nbsp;was set to reach on August 11 and then continue on its journey on August 17.

Indian officials had reportedly informed Sri Lanka that the Chinese ship could pose a threat to its national security. India's external affairs ministry informed it was monitoring the development closely since it "bears on India's security and economic interests". The external affairs ministry had said it would take "all necessary measures" to ensure India's security.&nbsp;

A Pentagon report claimed earlier that the Yuan Wang ships are operated by the Strategic Support Force of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA).

(With inputs from agencies)

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According to reports, the Sri Lankan government has asked China to defer the arrival of Yuan Wang 5 ship at Hambantota port. The Chinese space-satellite tracker ship was set to refuel at the Lankan port.

According to reports, the Sri Lankan government has asked China to defer the arrival of Yuan Wang 5 ship at Hambantota port. The Chinese space-satellite tracker ship was set to refuel at the Lankan port. The ship built in 2007 can also be used in intercontinental ballistic missile launch with wide aerial scope to track regions with a parameter of 750 kms. Reports claimed Sri Lanka has deferred the ship's arrival until further consultations with Chinese authorities. Also Read: India raises concern over Chinese vessel’s proposed visit India had earlier raised concerns over China's decision to station the ship on Hambantota port. The strategic port was leased to a Chinese company by Sri Lanka after it failed to pay its loans. China has consistently denied that Sri Lanka has been clamped into a debt trap even as there has been virtually no economic activity in Hambantota. Watch: Sri Lanka wants its 'debt trap' Hambantota port back Sri Lanka is currently battling the worst economic crisis in its history with sky high inflation and acute shortage of fuel and electricity. Earlier this week, police in India's southern state of Tamil Nadu had beefed up coastal security as the Chinese vessel was set to reach Hambantota. The Sri Lankan defence ministry had announced the arrival of the ship which was set to reach on August 11 and then continue on its journey on August 17. Indian officials had reportedly informed Sri Lanka that the Chinese ship could pose a threat to its national security. India's external affairs ministry informed it was monitoring the development closely since it "bears on India's security and economic interests". The external affairs ministry had said it would take "all necessary measures" to ensure India's security. A Pentagon report claimed earlier that the Yuan Wang ships are operated by the Strategic Support Force of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka defers visit of China's satellite tracking ship to Hambantota port

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday reported a recent incident of "close&nbsp;distance&nbsp;maneuvering" by a&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;Coast Guard (CCG) vessel in the disputed South China Sea that "constrained" the movement of a Philippine ship sailing nearby.

The March 2 incident took place during the PCG's maritime patrol operations around the&nbsp;Scarborough&nbsp;Shoal, locally known as Bajo de Masinloc, the PCG said in a news release.

It was yet unclear whether the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;had lodged a diplomatic protest for the incident. The PCG said it had to wait for the go-signal from the country's National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea before making the incident public.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-flee-after-philippine-volcano-erupts-465693">Thousands flee after Philippine volcano erupts</a>

The incident involved a CCG vessel with bow number 3305 that conducted close&nbsp;distance&nbsp;maneuvering over an area of approximately 21 yards (19.2 m) in the direction of Philippine vessel BRP Malabrigo, the PCG said.

"This constrained the maneuvering space of BRP Malabrigo - a clear violation of the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)," the PCG said.

The PCG had asked the country's Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to help address the issue through "rules-based and peaceful approaches," according to the PCG commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-prevent-rape-and-abuse-philippines-raises-age-of-sexual-consent-to-16-459948">To prevent rape and abuse, Philippines raises age of sexual consent to 16</a>

The DFA and the&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

China lays claim to most of the waters within a so-called Nine Dash Line in the South China Sea, which is also contested by Brunei, Malaysia, the&nbsp;Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Abu said it was the fourth reported incident of close&nbsp;distance&nbsp;maneuvering involving CCG and Philippine vessels in the&nbsp;Scarborough&nbsp;Shoal&nbsp;since May last year.

Despite the risks, Abu said the deployment of Philippine assets and personnel to waters within the country's exclusive economic zones would continue.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The Philippines delays RCEP nod

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The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday reported a recent incident of "close distance maneuvering" by a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel in the disputed South China Sea that "constrained" the movement of a Philippine ship sailing nearby.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday reported a recent incident of "close distance maneuvering" by a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel in the disputed South China Sea that "constrained" the movement of a Philippine ship sailing nearby. The March 2 incident took place during the PCG's maritime patrol operations around the Scarborough Shoal, locally known as Bajo de Masinloc, the PCG said in a news release. It was yet unclear whether the Philippines had lodged a diplomatic protest for the incident. The PCG said it had to wait for the go-signal from the country's National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea before making the incident public. Also read | Thousands flee after Philippine volcano erupts The incident involved a CCG vessel with bow number 3305 that conducted close distance maneuvering over an area of approximately 21 yards (19.2 m) in the direction of Philippine vessel BRP Malabrigo, the PCG said. "This constrained the maneuvering space of BRP Malabrigo - a clear violation of the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)," the PCG said. The PCG had asked the country's Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to help address the issue through "rules-based and peaceful approaches," according to the PCG commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu. Also read | To prevent rape and abuse, Philippines raises age of sexual consent to 16 The DFA and the Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to requests for comment. China lays claim to most of the waters within a so-called Nine Dash Line in the South China Sea, which is also contested by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. Abu said it was the fourth reported incident of close distance maneuvering involving CCG and Philippine vessels in the Scarborough Shoal since May last year. Despite the risks, Abu said the deployment of Philippine assets and personnel to waters within the country's exclusive economic zones would continue. Watch | Gravitas: The Philippines delays RCEP nod

Philippines slams Chinese ship's 'close distance maneuvering' at Scarborough Shoal

China said it has sent its naval missile destroyer Urumqi to the Gulf of Oman as part of CHIRU-2Q22 joint drills with the Russian and Iranian navies.

The Chinese regime also sent helicopters and marines for the exercise,&nbsp;the country's foreign ministry said as the three countries look to "deepen practical cooperation".

The military exercise is currently underway and is due to finish on Saturday. Russia sent its Pacific Fleet’s task force which included Nakhimov missile cruiser Varyag and anti-submarine warfare ship Admiral Tributs including a sea tanker.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-photos-show-russian-troops-deployed-near-ukraine-border-446072">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border</a>

During the drill, the three countries will conduct artillery fire against sea targets and take part in&nbsp;tactical manoeuvring, Russia's TASS news agency reported. The navies will also conduct anti-piracy drills.

After the naval exercise, Russian warships will participate in the naval drills.

The Russian defence ministry had said earlier that it would conduct a series of drills in January and February "in all areas of responsibility" in the "operationally important areas of the world ocean" for the Russian Navy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-will-happen-if-russian-troops-invade-ukraine-431684">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine?</a>

The defence ministry said it will conduct exercises in the waters of the Mediterranean, Okhotsk seas including the northeastern part of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

The ministry said at least 140 warships and over 60 aircraft with&nbsp;nearly 10,000 military personnel would be taking part in the military excercises.

Russia's latest naval drills come even as it has already begun conducting combat drills with Belarus amid tensions on the border with Ukraine.

The first part of the drill will take place from this week until February 9 with the second part due to take place February 10-20 with large scale troop deployment including drills by the Air Force.

(With inputs from Agencies)

China said it has sent its naval missile destroyer Urumqi to the Gulf of Oman as part of CHIRU-2Q22 joint drills with the Russian and Iranian navies. The Chinese regime also sent helicopters and marines for the exercise, the country's foreign ministry said as the three countries look to "deepen practical cooperation".

China said it has sent its naval missile destroyer Urumqi to the Gulf of Oman as part of CHIRU-2Q22 joint drills with the Russian and Iranian navies. The Chinese regime also sent helicopters and marines for the exercise, the country's foreign ministry said as the three countries look to "deepen practical cooperation". The military exercise is currently underway and is due to finish on Saturday. Russia sent its Pacific Fleet’s task force which included Nakhimov missile cruiser Varyag and anti-submarine warfare ship Admiral Tributs including a sea tanker. Also Read in Pics: Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border During the drill, the three countries will conduct artillery fire against sea targets and take part in tactical manoeuvring, Russia's TASS news agency reported. The navies will also conduct anti-piracy drills. After the naval exercise, Russian warships will participate in the naval drills. The Russian defence ministry had said earlier that it would conduct a series of drills in January and February "in all areas of responsibility" in the "operationally important areas of the world ocean" for the Russian Navy. Also Read in Pics: What will happen if Russian troops invade Ukraine? The defence ministry said it will conduct exercises in the waters of the Mediterranean, Okhotsk seas including the northeastern part of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. The ministry said at least 140 warships and over 60 aircraft with nearly 10,000 military personnel would be taking part in the military excercises. Russia's latest naval drills come even as it has already begun conducting combat drills with Belarus amid tensions on the border with Ukraine. The first part of the drill will take place from this week until February 9 with the second part due to take place February 10-20 with large scale troop deployment including drills by the Air Force. (With inputs from Agencies)

China sends destroyer for Russia, Iran naval drill in Gulf of Oman

A Chinese ship carrying cargo used to launch missiles has been intercepted by India. Is Beijing helping Islamabad boost its nuclear power?

Gravitas: India intercepts Pakistan bound Chinese ship

Japan&nbspon Tuesday&nbspsaid it had detected what appeared to be a Chinese-flagged vessel, 350 km (218 miles) off Shanghai, conducting illegal transfers to a North Korean ship.

"Following a comprehensive assessment, the government of Japan strongly suspects that they conducted ship-to-ship transfers banned by UNSCR," Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a news release, referring to UN&nbspSecurity Council resolutions.

A Japanese P-3 maritime patrol plane detected the vessels, which lay alongside each other connected by hoses, on May 19, with one of the ships flying what seemed like a Chinese flag, it said.

China's Foreign Ministry said the information provided was "unclear" and it was hard to reach any definitive conclusions.

China has always fully enforced UN resolutions and if there is concrete proof of the resolutions being breached then China will handle it in accordance with the law, the ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters.

Japan's decision to voice its suspicion comes as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbspPresident Donald Trump prepared for what may be a breakthrough summit as early as next month.

Japan is urging the United States and other countries to stick to a strict imposition of UN&nbspsanctions on North Korea until it abandons the development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

In April, the UN&nbspSecurity Council blacklisted dozens of ships and shipping companies over oil and coal smuggling by North Korea, including five based in China. The vessels are subject to a global port ban and must be deregistered.

China's Foreign Ministry said the information provided was "unclear" and it was hard to reach any definitive conclusions

Japan&nbspon Tuesday&nbspsaid it had detected what appeared to be a Chinese-flagged vessel, 350 km (218 miles) off Shanghai, conducting illegal transfers to a North Korean ship. "Following a comprehensive assessment, the government of Japan strongly suspects that they conducted ship-to-ship transfers banned by UNSCR," Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a news release, referring to UN&nbspSecurity Council resolutions. A Japanese P-3 maritime patrol plane detected the vessels, which lay alongside each other connected by hoses, on May 19, with one of the ships flying what seemed like a Chinese flag, it said. China's Foreign Ministry said the information provided was "unclear" and it was hard to reach any definitive conclusions. China has always fully enforced UN resolutions and if there is concrete proof of the resolutions being breached then China will handle it in accordance with the law, the ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters. Japan's decision to voice its suspicion comes as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbspPresident Donald Trump prepared for what may be a breakthrough summit as early as next month. Japan is urging the United States and other countries to stick to a strict imposition of UN&nbspsanctions on North Korea until it abandons the development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. In April, the UN&nbspSecurity Council blacklisted dozens of ships and shipping companies over oil and coal smuggling by North Korea, including five based in China. The vessels are subject to a global port ban and must be deregistered.

Japan says it detects apparent Chinese ship breaking North Korea sanctions

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