After India visit, Dissanayake discusses maritime research and development with China

Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Qin Boyong of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference on December 18, 2024. Photo: Special Arrangement

A day after returning from India following a three-day visit, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake discussed Chinese development partnership, investments and a possible resumption of maritime research with a visiting member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

In a meeting with Qin Boyong, vice-chairperson of the National Committee of the CPPCC, held on Wednesday, Mr. Dissanayake expressed “gratitude to the Chinese government for its support during debt restructuring as well as in the face of the economic crisis”, his office said. Mr. Dissanayake “emphasised the continued need for China’s support in the future,” the Presidential Media Division said in a statement that outlined discussions on unfinished Chinese projects and potential investments.

Ms. Qin stated that there are “plans to restart maritime research activities, which were temporarily halted for various reasons, along with initiating relevant projects”, the President’s office said. The statement assumes significance, with Sri Lanka’s one-year moratorium on research vessels — imposed by Colombo after New Delhi raised concern over Chinese research vessels calling at Sri Lankan ports — expiring soon.

During his recent visit, President Dissanayake said he assured Prime Minister Narendra Modi that “Sri Lanka will not permit its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India as well as towards regional stability”. Briefing the media soon after, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Mr. Dissanayake’s statement could have a bearing on Sri Lanka’s clearance for foreign vessels. Further, speaking at an event in New Delhi, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said the Sri Lankan government had appointed a committee to review the moratorium.  Following his first state visit abroad to India, Mr. Dissanayake is scheduled to travel to Beijing next month.