The recent arrival of China’s satellite tracking vessel Yuan Wang 5 at Sri Lanka’s southern Hambantota Port has sparked concern in India and the U.S., given the military nature of the ship. This presence inserts itself into an already complex relationship between China, Sri Lanka, and India – a relationship marked by underlying political maneuverings and economic dependencies.
About Yuan Wang 5 and Hambantota Port
Yuan Wang 5 is a key player in China’s ambitious space program as a third-generation vessel of the Yuan Wang series launched in 2007. It tracks satellites and intercontinental missiles, providing crucial support for manned space missions. On the other hand, the Hambantota International Port, where the ship docked, is a strategic collaboration between the Sri Lankan government and China Merchants Port Holdings. The port was leased to China for 99 years after Sri Lanka defaulted on Chinese loan repayments, a scenario that critics argue exemplifies China’s “debt trap” diplomacy.
Chinese Influence in Sri Lanka: Concerns for India
China’s growing presence in Sri Lanka, backed by significant financial aid and infrastructure investment, presents concerns for India. Sri Lanka is heavily reliant on Chinese credit to manage its foreign debt, with loans from China making up 15% of the Sri Lankan government’s external debt. Tensions further rise with China’s increasing naval presence in the Hambantota and Colombo ports, which handle a substantial part of India’s trans-shipment cargo. This development threatens India’s national security, as it aligns with China’s Strings of Pearls Strategy – a geopolitical strategy aimed at encircling India by building strategic relationships with neighboring countries.
Preserving India’s Strategic Interests
In light of these events, India must adopt a multifaceted approach. Emphasizing the Neighbourhood First policy, India should invest in nurturing its relationship with Sri Lanka to safeguard its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.
Plattforms for Regional Cooperation
India can utilize regional platforms like BIMSTEC, SAARC, SAGAR and IORA to promote collaboration in sectors like tech-driven agriculture, marine sector development, and IT & communication infrastructure.
Restraining Chinese Expansion
Ensuring progress on infrastructure projects like the Kankesanturai port in Jaffna and the oil tank farm project in Trincomalee is crucial to keep China’s expansion in check. Strengthening private sector investments to build economic resilience could also be an effective strategy.
Leveraging India’s Soft Power
India can leverage its soft power by creating job opportunities in Sri Lanka through its IT companies. This move would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, boosting the island nation’s service economy.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
Past examination questions are often indicative of the topic’s relevance and importance. Previous year questions about India-Sri Lanka relations and their trade value, the String of Pearls strategy and its impact on India, and the influence of domestic factors on foreign policy have been asked.
This article concludes here, leaving readers with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics between Sri Lanka, China, and India, and India’s strategic concerns and potential solutions.
