New Delhi: The 16th edition of the India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral naval exercise, named “Dosti,” kicked off in Male, Maldives, with Bangladesh observing. The arrival of Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Samarth, ICGS Abhinav, and ICG Dornier in Male marked the beginning of the joint military maneuvers.
However, attention was drawn to the presence of a Chinese research vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 03, near Male port during the exercise. Reports indicate the vessel’s earlier anchoring near Thilafushi.
The Maldives government granted permission for the Chinese research vessel’s stopover, emphasizing its purpose for replenishment and denying engagement in research activities in Maldivian waters. This move raised concerns in India, prompting diplomatic efforts to halt the ship’s docking in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
India has expressed apprehension about the Xiang Yang Hong 03’s activities in the Indian Ocean, while China defended the vessel’s actions, stating they align with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Amidst these developments, Coast Guards from Maldives, India, and Sri Lanka, along with observers from Bangladesh, participated in the trilateral joint exercise ‘Dosti-16.’ The Maldives National Defence Force welcomed the participating ships and highlighted the event’s significance in enhancing collaboration between the nations.
The visit of the Indian Coast Guard to the Maldives coincides with the Maldivian government’s request for the withdrawal of 88 Indian military personnel by March 15, managing three aviation platforms.
