Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether China has taken over operational control of certain strategic ports of India’s neighbouring countries and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether there is apprehension that these ports can be used for military activities by China against India and if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the action taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRIMATI PRENEET KAUR)

(a) to (c) Government have seen reports that Chinese companies are involved in the construction of the Colombo South Container Terminal and Hambantota Port project in Sri Lanka on commercial basis. Recently, management of operations of Gwadar Port have been taken over by a Chinese firm. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.

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Miscellaneous

South Asia