India and China have had a troubled relationship on almost all fronts to have seen highs and lows of border disputes and trade differences for over security as well. To get more perspective on this, we're joined by China expert Atul Aneja, a senior journalist.

India, China spar over Chinese 'spy' vessel | Row continues over Yuan Wang 5

For the past six days, the presence of a Chinese research vessel in Sri Lanka has caused some unease in New Delhi. After a contentious six-day visit, the ship docked at the strategically significant Hambantota port and departed from Sri Lankan waters on Monday.

The Chinese space and satellite ship Yuan Wang 5 was docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port. The Chinese military used the surveillance ship to monitor launches of satellites, rockets, and intercontinental ballistic missiles.

India claimed that Yuan Wang 5 was more than just a military ship and that it had the ability to spy on its operations. Beijing allegedly has the authority to scrutinise travel to as many as six ports in south India.

The ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship "Yuan Wang 5" was supposed to arrive at the Chinese-run port on August 11, but Sri Lankan authorities refused to grant them permission due to security concerns raised by India.

Watch:

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At 8:20 a.m. local time on August 16, the Chinese ship docked in the port of Hambantota in southern Sri Lanka. In order to refuel, it docked there.

According to local harbour master Nirmal Silva, the ship departed the port at 4 p.m. local time.

According to officials, Jiang Yin port in China will be its next port of call.

According to Hambantota port officials, no personnel rotation occurred during the call, as was previously agreed. During the ship's visit, Sri Lanka provided the necessary assistance that the Chinese embassy had requested.

Due to India's concerns, Sri Lanka had requested that China postpone the visit. Colombo granted the vessel port access from August 16 to August 22 on August 13 with the stipulation that it maintain an active Automatic Identification System (AIS) inside Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone and refrain from conducting any scientific research within Sri Lankan waters.

According to Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Defence gave the vessel permission to visit for replenishment during the predetermined time period.

It stated that there would be no personnel rotation during the port call and that the Chinese Embassy in Colombo had asked the Sri Lankan government to provide the necessary assistance.

The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry stated earlier this month that security and cooperation in the neighbourhood are of the utmost importance when handling the situation involving the Chinese vessel Wang Yang 5.

The local telecommunications regulatory authority had issued a No Objection Letter for the use of frequencies and communication equipment subject to non-interference and non-protection.

In New Delhi, there were worries that the ship's tracking systems might try to eavesdrop on Indian defence installations while it was en route to the port in Sri Lanka.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the past six days, the presence of a Chinese research vessel in Sri Lanka has caused some unease in New Delhi. After a contentious six-day visit, the ship docked at the strategically significant Hambantota port and departed from Sri Lankan waters on Monday.

For the past six days, the presence of a Chinese research vessel in Sri Lanka has caused some unease in New Delhi. After a contentious six-day visit, the ship docked at the strategically significant Hambantota port and departed from Sri Lankan waters on Monday. The Chinese space and satellite ship Yuan Wang 5 was docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port. The Chinese military used the surveillance ship to monitor launches of satellites, rockets, and intercontinental ballistic missiles. India claimed that Yuan Wang 5 was more than just a military ship and that it had the ability to spy on its operations. Beijing allegedly has the authority to scrutinise travel to as many as six ports in south India. The ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship "Yuan Wang 5" was supposed to arrive at the Chinese-run port on August 11, but Sri Lankan authorities refused to grant them permission due to security concerns raised by India. Watch: At 8:20 a.m. local time on August 16, the Chinese ship docked in the port of Hambantota in southern Sri Lanka. In order to refuel, it docked there. According to local harbour master Nirmal Silva, the ship departed the port at 4 p.m. local time. According to officials, Jiang Yin port in China will be its next port of call. According to Hambantota port officials, no personnel rotation occurred during the call, as was previously agreed. During the ship's visit, Sri Lanka provided the necessary assistance that the Chinese embassy had requested. Due to India's concerns, Sri Lanka had requested that China postpone the visit. Colombo granted the vessel port access from August 16 to August 22 on August 13 with the stipulation that it maintain an active Automatic Identification System (AIS) inside Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone and refrain from conducting any scientific research within Sri Lankan waters. According to Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Defence gave the vessel permission to visit for replenishment during the predetermined time period. It stated that there would be no personnel rotation during the port call and that the Chinese Embassy in Colombo had asked the Sri Lankan government to provide the necessary assistance. The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry stated earlier this month that security and cooperation in the neighbourhood are of the utmost importance when handling the situation involving the Chinese vessel Wang Yang 5. The local telecommunications regulatory authority had issued a No Objection Letter for the use of frequencies and communication equipment subject to non-interference and non-protection. In New Delhi, there were worries that the ship's tracking systems might try to eavesdrop on Indian defence installations while it was en route to the port in Sri Lanka. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s ‘spy ship’ Yuan Wang 5 departs from Sri Lankan waters after contentious six-day visit

Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5, which docked in the Southern Sri Lankan port of Hambatota on Tuesday, has irked India. While China claims it is a research vessel, India says that it is a spy ship. In fact, both these claims are true as the Yuan Wang 5 is a classic example of dual-use technology. It possesses sophisticated capabilities that can be used for a wide-range of civilian and military purposes. WION spoke to Aerospace and Defence sources to understand the possible capabilities of such tracking and support vessels.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chinese?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chinese</a> spy/“research”vessel (equipped with powerful, long-range radars , sensors) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YuanWang5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YuanWang5</a> entering the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hambantota?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hambantota</a> port in southern <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> , this morning <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> had been objecting to this ship docking in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lanka</a> , but Lanka budged to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/china?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#china</a> &amp; results are here! <a href="https://t.co/eXoWYqTYhL">pic.twitter.com/eXoWYqTYhL</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1559380052113965056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As a scientific vessel

During rocket launches, all space agencies track the path of the rocket to understand the mission's progress. In most cases, tracking is carried out by large antennas on land. However, during special launch missions(interplanetary missions or while using unconventional orbits), a rocket or satellite might not be accessible for tracking from the existing ground stations. In such cases, the spacefaring object would not be visible to the ground stations, and space agencies would place antenna-bearing ships at certain vantage locations at sea, to carry out the tracking. In most cases, such ships are placed at mid-sea locations where there are no ground-based tracking facilities available.&nbsp;

For example, during the launch of India's Mangalyaan or Mars Orbiter Mission, two antenna-bearing tracking vessels were positioned in the South Pacific ocean. Following the initial phase of the launch that was tracked by the ground stations, it was these ships that tracked the mission's progress while the spacefaring rocket was zooming in space, over the earth's vast oceans.&nbsp;

Given China's ambitious spacefaring activities and their ongoing construction of a space station, it is possible that the Yuan Wang 5 could be used for communicating with their assets in space and to support scientific causes.

As a 'Scientific Spy' and a tracking centre&nbsp;

In high-end technology, the lines between civil and military use are blurred. The data that can be collected for civilian use might be extremely useful for the military establishment as well. For example, any country that can make solid-fueled spacefaring rockets will also be equally capable of building missiles, as the fundamental technologies of both hardware are similar.

Likewise, the Yuan Wang 5, with a displacement of more than 25,000 tons, could possess a host of powerful radars, antennae, sensors, and related technologies that could be used for both civilian and military purposes.&nbsp;

The ship's powerful radars indicate that they can track and analyse the paths of rockets, satellites and even missiles. In addition to this, the Yuan Wang can conduct surveillance at sea, on land(as far as its radar can penetrate) and also below the surface of the water.

The water in every ocean has its own set of unique characteristics, and the precise data about this can enhance the warfare capabilities of a naval force. It goes without saying that the waters of the Indian Ocean have characteristics that are vastly different from those of the Pacific Ocean.

Several parameters, such as water salinity, ocean temperature, sound wave propagation in water, and so on, aid in understanding the operating conditions and making appropriate preparations.Possessing such data can also help calibrate existing sensors and technology for precise operation of various systems and sub-systems.

Gathering Electronic Intelligence

With advanced sensors, a vessel like Yuan Wang 5 can also monitor and record the unique acoustic signatures of enemy ships and submarines, thus helping Chinese warships identify their rivals at sea and beneath the surface. This is also done by gathering the signals emitted by mobile assets and military bases/facilities. Such methods help understand the deployment of enemy vessels, aircraft, and assets and can help establish a pattern of their activity.

What does this mean for India?

Given the long-range tracking capabilities of the Chinese ship, it must be noted that India's spaceport in Sriharikota, the missile test range in Odisha, and several other military facilities in the peninsular region could possibly be within tracking range of the visiting vessel, or those facilities could be tracked as the ship sails to Hambantota and back.

India is concerned about the growing presence of China in the Indian Ocean region and the increasing influence of China in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka owes a significant debt(around 10% of Sri Lanka's foreign debt) to China, as several big-ticket infrastructure projects were built in Sri Lanka using Chinese loans. Meanwhile, India has provided close to $3.8 billion in aid to the island nation that is reeling under its worst-ever economic crisis.&nbsp;

Despite concerns raised by both India and the US, the Chinese ship has sailed into the Chinese-run Hambantota port in the island nation. The ship sailed in on August 16th, just a day after India gifted Sri Lanka a Dornier Maritime Surveillance Aircraft.

Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5, which docked in the Southern Sri Lankan port of Hambatota on Tuesday, has irked India. While China claims it is a research vessel, India says that it is a spy ship.

Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5, which docked in the Southern Sri Lankan port of Hambatota on Tuesday, has irked India. While China claims it is a research vessel, India says that it is a spy ship. In fact, both these claims are true as the Yuan Wang 5 is a classic example of dual-use technology. It possesses sophisticated capabilities that can be used for a wide-range of civilian and military purposes. WION spoke to Aerospace and Defence sources to understand the possible capabilities of such tracking and support vessels. #Chinese spy/“research”vessel (equipped with powerful, long-range radars , sensors) #YuanWang5 entering the #Hambantota port in southern #SriLanka , this morning #india and #USA had been objecting to this ship docking in #lanka , but Lanka budged to #china & results are here! pic.twitter.com/eXoWYqTYhL — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) August 16, 2022 × As a scientific vessel During rocket launches, all space agencies track the path of the rocket to understand the mission's progress. In most cases, tracking is carried out by large antennas on land. However, during special launch missions(interplanetary missions or while using unconventional orbits), a rocket or satellite might not be accessible for tracking from the existing ground stations. In such cases, the spacefaring object would not be visible to the ground stations, and space agencies would place antenna-bearing ships at certain vantage locations at sea, to carry out the tracking. In most cases, such ships are placed at mid-sea locations where there are no ground-based tracking facilities available. For example, during the launch of India's Mangalyaan or Mars Orbiter Mission, two antenna-bearing tracking vessels were positioned in the South Pacific ocean. Following the initial phase of the launch that was tracked by the ground stations, it was these ships that tracked the mission's progress while the spacefaring rocket was zooming in space, over the earth's vast oceans. Given China's ambitious spacefaring activities and their ongoing construction of a space station, it is possible that the Yuan Wang 5 could be used for communicating with their assets in space and to support scientific causes. As a 'Scientific Spy' and a tracking centre In high-end technology, the lines between civil and military use are blurred. The data that can be collected for civilian use might be extremely useful for the military establishment as well. For example, any country that can make solid-fueled spacefaring rockets will also be equally capable of building missiles, as the fundamental technologies of both hardware are similar. Likewise, the Yuan Wang 5, with a displacement of more than 25,000 tons, could possess a host of powerful radars, antennae, sensors, and related technologies that could be used for both civilian and military purposes. The ship's powerful radars indicate that they can track and analyse the paths of rockets, satellites and even missiles. In addition to this, the Yuan Wang can conduct surveillance at sea, on land(as far as its radar can penetrate) and also below the surface of the water. The water in every ocean has its own set of unique characteristics, and the precise data about this can enhance the warfare capabilities of a naval force. It goes without saying that the waters of the Indian Ocean have characteristics that are vastly different from those of the Pacific Ocean. Several parameters, such as water salinity, ocean temperature, sound wave propagation in water, and so on, aid in understanding the operating conditions and making appropriate preparations.Possessing such data can also help calibrate existing sensors and technology for precise operation of various systems and sub-systems. Gathering Electronic Intelligence With advanced sensors, a vessel like Yuan Wang 5 can also monitor and record the unique acoustic signatures of enemy ships and submarines, thus helping Chinese warships identify their rivals at sea and beneath the surface. This is also done by gathering the signals emitted by mobile assets and military bases/facilities. Such methods help understand the deployment of enemy vessels, aircraft, and assets and can help establish a pattern of their activity. What does this mean for India? Given the long-range tracking capabilities of the Chinese ship, it must be noted that India's spaceport in Sriharikota, the missile test range in Odisha, and several other military facilities in the peninsular region could possibly be within tracking range of the visiting vessel, or those facilities could be tracked as the ship sails to Hambantota and back. India is concerned about the growing presence of China in the Indian Ocean region and the increasing influence of China in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka owes a significant debt(around 10% of Sri Lanka's foreign debt) to China, as several big-ticket infrastructure projects were built in Sri Lanka using Chinese loans. Meanwhile, India has provided close to $3.8 billion in aid to the island nation that is reeling under its worst-ever economic crisis. Despite concerns raised by both India and the US, the Chinese ship has sailed into the Chinese-run Hambantota port in the island nation. The ship sailed in on August 16th, just a day after India gifted Sri Lanka a Dornier Maritime Surveillance Aircraft.

Yuan Wang 5: China's 'Scientific Spy' in Sri Lanka; What all can it possibly do? 

A Chinese research vessel entered Sri Lanka's Chinese-run southern port of Hambantota Tuesday, officials said, despite concerns from India and the United States.

Yuan Wang 5, the ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship, was allowed to dock at the Hambantota Port on the condition it will not carry out any research while in Sri Lankan waters, port officials said following consultations with India, the United States and China, reported AFP.

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Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang 5 docks at Sri Lankan port of Hambantota this morning. <a href="https://t.co/hkO5N8suJ7">pic.twitter.com/hkO5N8suJ7</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1559391999702102017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Initially, the Chinese vessel was due to arrive last week, but Sri Lanka urged China to defer the visit following objections by India, which shares Western concerns about Chinese activities in the region.

But on Saturday, Colombo made a massive U-turn&nbsp;saying that they have granted permission for the ship to dock at Hambantota and remain for six days after intense negotiations.

India had raised concerns at the possibility of the ship's tracking systems attempting to spy on Indian installations in the southern region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-miffed-over-deferment-of-spy-vessels-visit-calls-security-concerns-senseless-504767">China miffed over deferment of spy vessel's visit, calls security concerns 'senseless'</a>

"We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by the Chinese&nbsp;vessel to Hambantota in August," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said earlier.

"The government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them," he had said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-research-vessel-given-entry-in-sri-lanka-despite-indias-concerns-that-it-is-dual-use-spy-ship-506483">Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship</a>

Last week, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said it was "completely unjustified for certain countries to cite the so-called "security concerns" to pressure Sri Lanka."

"We urge the relevant parties to see China's marine scientific research activities in a rational light and stop disrupting normal exchange and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin had said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Chinese research vessel entered Sri Lanka's Chinese-run southern port of Hambantota Tuesday, officials said, despite concerns from India and the United States.

A Chinese research vessel entered Sri Lanka's Chinese-run southern port of Hambantota Tuesday, officials said, despite concerns from India and the United States. Yuan Wang 5, the ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship, was allowed to dock at the Hambantota Port on the condition it will not carry out any research while in Sri Lankan waters, port officials said following consultations with India, the United States and China, reported AFP. Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang 5 docks at Sri Lankan port of Hambantota this morning. pic.twitter.com/hkO5N8suJ7 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 16, 2022 × Initially, the Chinese vessel was due to arrive last week, but Sri Lanka urged China to defer the visit following objections by India, which shares Western concerns about Chinese activities in the region. But on Saturday, Colombo made a massive U-turn saying that they have granted permission for the ship to dock at Hambantota and remain for six days after intense negotiations. India had raised concerns at the possibility of the ship's tracking systems attempting to spy on Indian installations in the southern region. Also read | China miffed over deferment of spy vessel's visit, calls security concerns 'senseless' "We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by the Chinese vessel to Hambantota in August," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said earlier. "The government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them," he had said. Also read | Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship Last week, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said it was "completely unjustified for certain countries to cite the so-called "security concerns" to pressure Sri Lanka." "We urge the relevant parties to see China's marine scientific research activities in a rational light and stop disrupting normal exchange and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin had said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese 'surveillance' ship docks at Sri Lankan port amid concerns in India

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he understands the pain of jawans, Air Force officers, the families of martyred pilots as well as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited workers and will work to bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from them.&nbsp;

Gandhi addressed them all on Twitter in his apparent attack against the Narendra Modi government on the issue of the Rafale fighter jet deal.&nbsp;

"To every Air Force officer and Jawan who has served India. To the family of every martyred Indian fighter pilot. To every person who ever worked for HAL.

We hear your pain. We understand how you feel. We will bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from you," he said on Twitter.&nbsp;

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To every Air Force officer and Jawan who has served India. To the family of every martyred Indian fighter pilot. To every person who ever worked for HAL. We hear your pain. We understand how you feel. We will bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from you. <a href="https://t.co/gNFgnaYn4W">pic.twitter.com/gNFgnaYn4W</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1044499479456600064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Gandhi has been attacking the government on the Rafale deal, accusing the Modi government and the prime minister of putting money into the pockets of his "crony" friends.&nbsp;

Yesterday, he said the country's "chowkidar" Modi snatched money away from the poor and handed it over to industrialist Anil Ambani. Gandhi also asked the prime minister for answers on several issues relating to the Rafale jet fighter deal.

"The chowkidar of the country has taken out Rs 20,000 crore from the pockets of the poor, martyrs and the jawans and put it in the pocket of (Anil) Ambani," Gandhi said at a meeting in the Jais area of his Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

"HAL which has been in the business for 70 years, makes aircraft...While Anil Ambani had not made an aircraft in his life and also has an outstanding bank loan of Rs 45,000 crore," he said. 
&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he understands the pain of jawans, Air Force officers, the families of martyred pilots as well as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited workers and will work to bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from them.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he understands the pain of jawans, Air Force officers, the families of martyred pilots as well as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited workers and will work to bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from them. Gandhi addressed them all on Twitter in his apparent attack against the Narendra Modi government on the issue of the Rafale fighter jet deal. "To every Air Force officer and Jawan who has served India. To the family of every martyred Indian fighter pilot. To every person who ever worked for HAL. We hear your pain. We understand how you feel. We will bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from you," he said on Twitter. To every Air Force officer and Jawan who has served India. To the family of every martyred Indian fighter pilot. To every person who ever worked for HAL. We hear your pain. We understand how you feel. We will bring to justice all those who dishonoured and stole from you. pic.twitter.com/gNFgnaYn4W — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) September 25, 2018 × Gandhi has been attacking the government on the Rafale deal, accusing the Modi government and the prime minister of putting money into the pockets of his "crony" friends. Yesterday, he said the country's "chowkidar" Modi snatched money away from the poor and handed it over to industrialist Anil Ambani. Gandhi also asked the prime minister for answers on several issues relating to the Rafale jet fighter deal. "The chowkidar of the country has taken out Rs 20,000 crore from the pockets of the poor, martyrs and the jawans and put it in the pocket of (Anil) Ambani," Gandhi said at a meeting in the Jais area of his Lok Sabha constituency. "HAL which has been in the business for 70 years, makes aircraft...While Anil Ambani had not made an aircraft in his life and also has an outstanding bank loan of Rs 45,000 crore," he said.

Explainer: Applications of China's Yuan Wang 5 in space and spying operations

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

Miffed over Sri Lanka deferring the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5, China, without mentioning India, said that the security concerns raised over the vessel are "senseless", adding that cooperation between Colombo and Beijing "does not target third country".

The vessel was expected to dock at Hambantota port on August 11, but Sri Lankan foreign ministry last week communicated to the Chinese embassy in Colombo&nbsp;that the approval has been revoked.

In a daily presser, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said, "Sri Lanka is a sovereign state and, it can develop relations with other countries, in light of its own development interest.”

“Cooperation between Sri Lanka and China are independently chosen by the two countries based on common interest and it doesn't target third party,” he added.

Urging "relevant parties", the spokesperson asked them to see "China's scientific exploration in a reasonable and sensible way and stop disturbing normal exchange of cooperation between China and Sri Lanka."

India had raised the matter with the Sri Lanka government over fears that the Chinese vessel was there to spy on India. Notably, the permission for the spy vessel was given on July 12, just a day before the then president Gotabaya Rajapakse fled the country.

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson explained that "many scientific explorations ships including those from China have stopped at the port of Sri Lanka for resupplies. China has always exercised the freedom of navigation in the high seas and fully respects the jurisdiction of coastal states of the scientific exploration activities within their jurisdiction waters."

Last month, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) raised the matter, In response to a question, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by this vessel at Hambantota port, in August. Let me just say that government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them."

Colombo had called for deferment of the visit of the Chinese vessel on August 5, a day after President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed the "One China" principle amid the Taiwan crisis. &nbsp;

India has provided economic support worth over $2 billion to cash-strapped Sri Lanka.

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Miffed over Sri Lanka deferring the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5, China, without mentioning India, said that the security concerns raised over the vessel are "senseless", adding that cooperation between Colombo and Beijing "does not target third country".

Miffed over Sri Lanka deferring the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5, China, without mentioning India, said that the security concerns raised over the vessel are "senseless", adding that cooperation between Colombo and Beijing "does not target third country". The vessel was expected to dock at Hambantota port on August 11, but Sri Lankan foreign ministry last week communicated to the Chinese embassy in Colombo that the approval has been revoked. In a daily presser, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said, "Sri Lanka is a sovereign state and, it can develop relations with other countries, in light of its own development interest.” “Cooperation between Sri Lanka and China are independently chosen by the two countries based on common interest and it doesn't target third party,” he added. Urging "relevant parties", the spokesperson asked them to see "China's scientific exploration in a reasonable and sensible way and stop disturbing normal exchange of cooperation between China and Sri Lanka." India had raised the matter with the Sri Lanka government over fears that the Chinese vessel was there to spy on India. Notably, the permission for the spy vessel was given on July 12, just a day before the then president Gotabaya Rajapakse fled the country. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson explained that "many scientific explorations ships including those from China have stopped at the port of Sri Lanka for resupplies. China has always exercised the freedom of navigation in the high seas and fully respects the jurisdiction of coastal states of the scientific exploration activities within their jurisdiction waters." Last month, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) raised the matter, In response to a question, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by this vessel at Hambantota port, in August. Let me just say that government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them." Colombo had called for deferment of the visit of the Chinese vessel on August 5, a day after President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed the "One China" principle amid the Taiwan crisis. India has provided economic support worth over $2 billion to cash-strapped Sri Lanka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China miffed over deferment of spy vessel's visit, calls security concerns 'senseless'

Last week was quite dramatic as Colombo careful balanced ties with China while placating India's concern over the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5. The vessel was expected to dock at Hambantota port on August 11&nbsp;but was deferred after India raised the matter with Sri Lanka over its security worries.

Interestingly, on Thursday, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed the "One China" policy, around the same time when the discussions were on about denying entry to the Chinese vessel.

The reaffirmation came amidst the crisis in the Taiwan Straits and Beijing calling on the global community to stand by the 'One China' principle. Sri Lanka joined Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Afghanistan’s Taliban in reaffirming the policy, which is dear to Beijing.&nbsp;

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During a meeting with H.E. Qi Zhenghong, Ambassador of China, I reiterated Sri Lanka's firm commitment to the one-China policy, as well as to the UN Charter principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations. (1/2)
— Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP/status/1555066029717561344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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One China policy is the diplomatic acknowledgement of Beijing's position that there is only one Chinese government with the People's Republic of China serving as the sole legitimate government of that China, and that Taiwan is a part of China.

On August 5, the Sri Lankan foreign ministry wrote a letter to the Chinese embassy in the country, informing that the vessel needs to defer the visit.

The letter said, "Ministry wishes to request that the arrival date of the vessel YUAN WANG 5 in Hambantota to be deferred until further consultations are made on this matter".

That same week also, the matter was discussed between Sri Lanka's foreign minister Ali Sabry and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi when they met in Cambodia on the sidelines of the ASEAN meetings.&nbsp;

Last month, India publicly raised concerns about the visit of the vessel. During weekly Ministry of External Affairs briefings, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to a question on it, said, "We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by this vessel at Hambantota port in August. Let me just say that government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them."

Sri Lanka had given permission for the vessel to dock on July 12. Notably, permission was given a day before Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after the people’s protest intensified.

The Sri Lankan air force in a statement on July 13 said, "Sri Lankan President, the first lady along with 2 bodyguards were subjected to full approval by Ministry of Defence for immigration, customs &amp; other laws to fly to the Maldives. Air Force aircraft was provided to them in the early morning of July 13".

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has provided economic support worth over $2 billion to it. In January this year, India extended a US$ 400 million currency swap to Sri Lanka under the SAARC Framework and deferred successive Asian Clearing Union (ACU) settlements till July 6, 2022.

A Line of Credit (LoC) of US$ 500 million was extended to Sri Lanka for importing fuel from India. In addition, India has extended a credit facility of US$ 1 billion for the procurement of food, medicines, and other essential items from India. Humanitarian assistance was also provided to Sri Lanka by gifting essential medicines worth about Rs 6 crores, 15,000 litres of kerosene oil and US $ 55 million LoC for procurement of urea fertilizer.

Last week was quite dramatic as Colombo careful balanced ties with China while placating India's concern over the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5. The vessel was expected to dock at Hambantota port on August 11 but was deferred after India raised the matter with Sri Lanka over its security worries.

Last week was quite dramatic as Colombo careful balanced ties with China while placating India's concern over the visit of the Chinese spy vessel, Yuan Wang 5. The vessel was expected to dock at Hambantota port on August 11 but was deferred after India raised the matter with Sri Lanka over its security worries. Interestingly, on Thursday, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed the "One China" policy, around the same time when the discussions were on about denying entry to the Chinese vessel. The reaffirmation came amidst the crisis in the Taiwan Straits and Beijing calling on the global community to stand by the 'One China' principle. Sri Lanka joined Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Afghanistan’s Taliban in reaffirming the policy, which is dear to Beijing. During a meeting with H.E. Qi Zhenghong, Ambassador of China, I reiterated Sri Lanka's firm commitment to the one-China policy, as well as to the UN Charter principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations. (1/2) — Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) August 4, 2022 × One China policy is the diplomatic acknowledgement of Beijing's position that there is only one Chinese government with the People's Republic of China serving as the sole legitimate government of that China, and that Taiwan is a part of China. On August 5, the Sri Lankan foreign ministry wrote a letter to the Chinese embassy in the country, informing that the vessel needs to defer the visit. The letter said, "Ministry wishes to request that the arrival date of the vessel YUAN WANG 5 in Hambantota to be deferred until further consultations are made on this matter". That same week also, the matter was discussed between Sri Lanka's foreign minister Ali Sabry and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi when they met in Cambodia on the sidelines of the ASEAN meetings. Last month, India publicly raised concerns about the visit of the vessel. During weekly Ministry of External Affairs briefings, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to a question on it, said, "We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by this vessel at Hambantota port in August. Let me just say that government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India's security and economic interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them." Sri Lanka had given permission for the vessel to dock on July 12. Notably, permission was given a day before Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after the people’s protest intensified. The Sri Lankan air force in a statement on July 13 said, "Sri Lankan President, the first lady along with 2 bodyguards were subjected to full approval by Ministry of Defence for immigration, customs & other laws to fly to the Maldives. Air Force aircraft was provided to them in the early morning of July 13". Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, India has provided economic support worth over $2 billion to it. In January this year, India extended a US$ 400 million currency swap to Sri Lanka under the SAARC Framework and deferred successive Asian Clearing Union (ACU) settlements till July 6, 2022. A Line of Credit (LoC) of US$ 500 million was extended to Sri Lanka for importing fuel from India. In addition, India has extended a credit facility of US$ 1 billion for the procurement of food, medicines, and other essential items from India. Humanitarian assistance was also provided to Sri Lanka by gifting essential medicines worth about Rs 6 crores, 15,000 litres of kerosene oil and US $ 55 million LoC for procurement of urea fertilizer.

All in a day: Sri Lanka reaffirmed one China, but blocked spy vessel's visit

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

Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5 is expected to arrive in Hambantota around mid-August. The tracking vessel has the capacity to spy on atomic sites and ports in southern India. Palki Sharma tells you how India is responding.

Gravitas: Chinese ship to spy on India from Sri Lanka?

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