Amid concerns from India and the United States, China’s research vessel Shiyan 6 is set to commence a two-day marine scientific research mission off Sri Lanka’s western coast. Collaborating with Sri Lanka’s National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency and the University of Ruhuna, the vessel’s research aims to cover geophysical exploration and other scientific projects. India and the U.S. had expressed concerns over the vessel’s visit, echoing previous apprehensions. Sri Lankan authorities assure that the Standard Operating Procedure to vet foreign vessels is yet to come into effect.