Historically recorded facts of the “Lakdiva Sea” are linked to India & SL. Sangamiththa (daughter of Ashoka) sailed in peace with the sapling while Kalinga Maga arrived with malice. Rulers of Jaffna sailed passing Mannar to attack Dematagoda (Colombo 09) & Panadura when they visited the Hindu temple dedicated to the god who protects cattle in Gorakana (Go Rakkana – cattle protector). That was when Alakeswara was in control with no naval supremacy (late 1300 ADs).   With the name changed to “Indian Ocean” by western colonizers “Lakdiva Sea” became hot water approx a century after the famous trade voyages of Chinese Admiral Zheng He & his elite blue navy (Ref. Kotte archives). Although Vijaya & his 700 men never returned (2500 BC), Chinese sailors never stayed after delivering Emperor Ming’s gifts to the Buddhists, Hindus & the Muslims of SL (1400s AD - Ref. Trilingual plaque/ Christianity introduced in 1505). Throughout history, those who sailed to settle get excited when the Chinese who never settled sail to SL. The excitement search light has fallen on “Shiyan – 6”.

Those feeling insecure or misinformed should observe President Ranil’s flagging on never allowing SL to be used as a threat to any state whether their flags are on the moon or not. However SL; media, military, citizens & officials should be cautious since conflict provocative elements which doesn’t wish to see the state coming out of misery may attempt unnecessary activity at ground level just as in the case of “Yuan Wang – 5” in August 2022.

Great China commanded about 300 mega ships approx 300 ft long 700 years back. Instead of using their naval supremacy to colonize weaker nations, they traded with the world. When the Peoples Liberation Army Navy was formed only the USSR supported them. When China wanted an aircraft carrier they purchased a decommissioned Australian ship for scrap metal. The seller was careful to remove technology/electronics before handing over due to political reasons (Ref. Chinese history). PLAN’s fully equipped hospital ships which sail to poor countries to treat populations free reflect the Chinese approach on naval supremacy in the 21^st century.

“Shiyan – 6” (Experiment – 6) is just one example of PLAN reinstating its past glory. According to Chinese sources it is a Scientific Research vessel managed by a 60 member crew. Its activity focuses on Oceanography, Marine Geology & Marine Ecology. In recent times global community focusing on climate change accepted SL’s dedication to work with them. International support pledged to establish a specialized university on climate change in SL is one instance. Under such circumstances Sri Lankans should not get mislead & use “Shiyan – 6” to expand joint research which will increase SL capacity to serve global concerns better. India & China being matured civilizations should jointly address climate change to protect mankind under the same sun.

(Views expressed are personal).