Chinese Research Vessel Not Believed to Have Conducted Survey in Maldives: Fisheries Minister

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam said he does not believe Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 conducted any survey in Maldives. The vessel spent three months in oceans around Maldives, docking at Malé and Thilafushi for crew replacement and restocking. It began its journey on 14 January 2024, arrived on 29 January, first docked at Malé on 22 February, returned to EEZ on 25 April, and is now in the Java Sea heading back to China. Shiyam stated any activities would be in collaboration with Maldivian government.

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam said he does not believe Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 conducted any survey in Maldives. The vessel spent three months in oceans around Maldives, docking at Malé and Thilafushi for crew replacement and restocking. It began its journey on 14 January 2024, arrived on 29 January, first docked at Malé on 22 February, returned to EEZ on 25 April, and is now in the Java Sea heading back to China. Shiyam stated any activities would be in collaboration with Maldivian government.

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam said he does not believe Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 conducted any survey in Maldives. The vessel spent three months in oceans around Maldives, docking at Malé and Thilafushi for crew replacement and restocking. It began its journey on 14 January 2024, arrived on 29 January, first docked at Malé on 22 February, returned to EEZ on 25 April, and is now in the Java Sea heading back to China. Shiyam stated any activities would be in collaboration with Maldivian government.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of china / maldives waters.