Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has refuted claims of any knowledge regarding a Chinese vessel conducting a study in Maldivian waters, despite reports of such activity since the beginning of the year.
Amidst concerns raised by India over allegations of espionage linked to the presence of a Chinese survey vessel in Maldives waters, Minister Shiyam clarified that he had not received any information regarding the vessel's activities.
Responding to inquiries, the minister emphasized the distinction between a research vessel and one engaged in direct study, noting that the specifics of the Chinese vessel's operations remained unclear.
"We don't know if the research vessel is doing anything that affects us, we don't know if the research vessel is doing anything related to us and I don't believe it is doing it," Minister Shiyam stated.
Regarding existing agreements, Minister Shiyam highlighted the hydrography agreement with India, which is set to continue until next month. This agreement underscores ongoing cooperation between Maldives and India in maritime matters.
Amidst concerns raised by India over allegations of espionage linked to the presence of a Chinese survey vessel in Maldives waters, Minister Shiyam clarified that he had not received any information regarding the vessel's activities.
Responding to inquiries, the minister emphasized the distinction between a research vessel and one engaged in direct study, noting that the specifics of the Chinese vessel's operations remained unclear.
"We don't know if the research vessel is doing anything that affects us, we don't know if the research vessel is doing anything related to us and I don't believe it is doing it," Minister Shiyam stated.
Regarding existing agreements, Minister Shiyam highlighted the hydrography agreement with India, which is set to continue until next month. This agreement underscores ongoing cooperation between Maldives and India in maritime matters.
