India expects Sri Lanka, Maldives to respect its security concerns
What's the story
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar has said India expects its Indian Ocean neighbors, Sri Lanka and Maldives, to be considerate about its security concerns.
The statement comes a week after the Sri Lankan government handed over its Hambantota Port to China on a 99-year lease.
Meanwhile, Maldives has stepped up its engagement with China, which would increase Beijing's presence in the region.
Port
Why India is concerned over the Hambantota Port
The Hambantota Port overlooks the Indian Ocean. It will likely play a crucial role in China's Belt and Road Initiative, regarding which India has reservations.
New Delhi is also concerned that the Chinese Navy will use the port.
Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe had earlier tried allaying India's security concerns, saying the port wouldn't be used as a "military base" by any foreign country.
Information
India says it will discuss security concerns with Sri Lanka
"We continue to take up with Sri Lanka issues related to the security concerns in the region and expect that our Sri Lankan friends will keep in mind our security concerns and sensitivities," Kumar said, likely referring to the port.
Maldives
India expects Maldives to be "sensitive to its concerns"
Last week, Maldives signed a Free Trade agreement with China and also endorsed its One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative.
China will also construct a 7-km Friendship Bridge connecting the Maldivian capital Male to its international airport.
Kumar welcomed the recent developments but said India expects Maldives "to be sensitive to its concerns in keeping with its 'India First' policy.