Despite the alarming human rights record of Sri Lanka’s navy, the US has donated a colossal naval vessel, the second 'Hamilton Class- High Endurance Cutter'.
On Twitter, US Ambassador for Sri Lanka Julie Chung, affirmed US support for “Sri Lanka’s maritime sovereignty stating”.
Welcome home @srilanka_Navy’s P627 (former @USCG Cutter Douglas Munro)! After a long journey from Seattle to Colombo, we celebrated the vessel’s arrival at the Colombo Port. We look forward to the vessel furthering our shared value of supporting Sri Lanka’s maritime sovereignty. pic.twitter.com/VtXA9Zv4ka
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) November 2, 2022
The vessel measures 115m in length, is designed for a 187 crew members and is equipped with modern weapons and machinery.
The gift comes despite growing concern over the Navy’s continued human rights abuses and attempts to prevent Tamils from fleeing the island. Sri Lanka’s Navy has also detained several Tamil Nadu fishermen shipping in their waters. This has often led to the death and abuse of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
A key concern for the US is China’s footprint in the region. Despite the protest of India, Sri Lanka enabled a Chinese naval ship to dock at the Chinese-owned harbour of Hambantota.
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