Sri Lanka Assures India on Security Amid Chinese Hambantota Port Operations
Sri Lanka has made a pivotal commitment to India, promising that its territory, including the Hambantota Port, will not be used for any activity threatening India’s security. President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka reiterated this stance during a joint statement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. This development comes against the backdrop of China’s increasing strategic presence in the Indian Ocean, marked by the docking of surveillance ships like Yuan Wang 5 at Hambantota, a port leased by China for 99 years following Sri Lanka’s inability to repay Chinese loans.
The Hambantota Port, equipped with advanced tracking systems, has raised concerns for India, given its ability to monitor satellite, missile, and aerial activities. While Sri Lanka previously allowed such dockings, today's assurance highlights Colombo's alignment with India's strategic concerns. The dialogue between the two nations emphasized strengthening bilateral ties rooted in cultural and historical connections.
President Dissanayaka also expressed gratitude for India’s economic support during Sri Lanka's 2022 financial crisis, reflecting the evolving partnership aimed at regional stability and socio-economic growth.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com