Maldives Keeps Reason for Chinese ‘Spy’ Ship Return Secret: Report

The Chinese ‘spy’ ship Xiang Yang Hong 03 was recently reported to be docked at the Thilafushi industrial island’s harbour. The ship’s return to the area was not officially explained by the government, but it had been granted permission to dock on a previous occasion.

This comes after President Mohamed Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, and his People’s National Congress secured a significant victory in the general election, further strengthening his position. The Xiang Yang Hong 03 was reported to have been active inside or near Maldives territory since January.

It had previously docked at the same Thilafushi port in February, after spending about a month near the boundary of the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The vessel, part of China’s State Oceanic Administration fleet, is a 100-meter-long, 4,500-tonne ship primarily used for distant water and deep-sea surveys, as well as other marine research activities.

The ship’s capabilities include conducting salinity studies, microbial genetic studies, underwater mineral exploration, and environmental research with advanced data buoys to collect real-time satellite information for the Chinese government. The Xiang Yang Hong 03’s stated endurance is 15,000 nautical miles, allowing for independent travel over long distances.

The vessel’s presence near the India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral Dosti-16 exercise, and its return to the region, have raised questions and speculation about its activities and potential surveillance capabilities. It is important to note that this article was published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff, except for the headline.