(a) whether China has signed an agreement with Sri Lanka for developing a sea harbour at
Humbantota;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the above step of China will increase its interference in the Indian
territorial water;
(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereof; and
(e) the action taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) & (b) Government have seen press reports to this effect. The Sri Lanka Ports
Authority and the Consortium of China Harbour Engineering Company Limited/Sino Hydro
Corporation Limited reportedly signed a contract for development of the Hambantota
Harbour on March 12, 2007 in Colombo.
(c) to (e) No. India exercises absolute sovereignty over its territorial waters.