Chinese marine research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 has returned to the Maldives.
The ship was docked at the Thilafushi industrial island's harbor this morning. The government has not disclosed the reason for its return. But the government previously confirmed permission for the ship to dock before its first visit.
The vessel first arrived on February 22 after spending about a month near the boundary of the Maldives' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). After leaving about six days later, the ship went back to the EEZ boundary.
The ship has now come back after skirting the EEZ. Therefore, Xiang Yang Hong 03 has been active inside or near Maldives territory since January.
In February, the Foreign Ministry said the Chinese vessel visited the Maldives for the rotation of its crew.
"[...] a diplomatic request was made by the government of China to the government of Maldives, for the necessary clearances to make a port call, for rotation of personnel and replenishment. The vessel would not be conducting any research while in the Maldivian waters," the Foreign Ministry said on January 23.
Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon also told Parliament that the Chinese vessel will not conduct any research despite sailing inside and near Maldivian waters.
"There was no permission given to conduct any research in the Maldives territory. After docking in Male' and buying food, they did a crew change. People who came on an airplane went onboard the boat and those on the boat left via the airplane. That was the permission that was given," Ghassan said on March 25.
According to China's State Oceanic Administration (SOA), which manages the Xiang Yang Hong 03, the ship is the most modern vessel manufactured in the country for marine research. China says it is a comprehensive research vessel, meaning it is equipped for more than one task.
According to China, the boat's endurance is 15,000 nautical miles, which means it could travel 15,000 nautical miles nonstop for its work without assistance.
The boat was introduced with DP-1 dynamic positioning, which means it has the capacity to stay anchored in place despite strong winds and ocean currents. Moreover, it has the capacity to turn 360 degrees by using thrusters while staying in place.
The boat's research equipment is lowered to the sea using electric winchers, which makes the work extremely easy. The boat uses research equipment manufactured in China and some equipment imported from overseas.
