China has voiced strong dissatisfaction to Sri Lanka following the decision to prohibit Chinese research vessels from conducting studies in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for a year, effective January 3, 2024.

Sri Lanka instituted a one-year moratorium on foreign research vessel activities, citing concerns over the planned exploration of the south Indian Ocean by the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3.

Owned by the Third Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources, the vessel's intended activities prompted Sri Lanka's decision amid pressure from India, which raised security apprehensions regarding such ventures in the region.

While lauded by Indian media as a setback to China, the move drew ire from Chinese authorities, who conveyed their displeasure to Sri Lanka for allegedly succumbing to external influence.
Concurrently, Chinese media began criticizing India, accusing it of coercing neighboring countries to take anti-Indian measures.