Chinese spy ship raises alarm bells in Sri Lanka

Chinese “spy ship” docks at Chinese built port in Sri Lanka, raising concerns in the region.

The Chinese research ship has docked at a Chinese built port in Sri Lanka after a days-long delay, after concerns were raised by India and the United States.

The Yuang Wang 5 arrived at the Sri Lankan port and was welcomed by Chinese diplomats and port officials.

The ship is capable of tracking satellites and was originally scheduled to arrive at the port on August 11.

But the Sri Lankan foreign ministry deferred the visit by five days due to what is called “certain concerns”.

Both India and the United States have reportedly raised concerns about the ship, which the Pentagon says can monitor satellite, rocket and ballistic missile launches.

India’s foreign ministry has rejected reports that it pressured Sri Lanka to turn the Yuan Wang away.

The Washington Post reports that US officials have lobbied against the ship’s planned visit.