Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said today (4) that Sri Lanka continues to safeguard its national sovereignty while fulfilling its humanitarian responsibilities under international maritime law, amid reports concerning Iranian vessels near the country's maritime limits.
Speaking at an event, Herath said maritime navigation in the region had become increasingly complex due to the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, with a number of vessels remaining stationary in international waters near countries including Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia.
He said around 47 vessels were currently anchored in international waters near Sri Lanka, including 19 Iranian vessels. However, he stressed that none of these vessels was located within Sri Lanka's territorial waters.
The Minister also rejected reports that the United States had advised or pressured Sri Lanka to prevent the vessels from receiving food or water.
He said the United States had not issued any notification, intervened or exerted pressure on the Sri Lankan Government regarding the matter, adding that Sri Lanka's decisions were being taken while safeguarding its sovereignty and national identity.
However, Herath said Sri Lanka would intervene where necessary on humanitarian grounds.
He cited the example of the Iranian vessel IRIS Bushehr, which remains docked at the Trincomalee Port, saying Sri Lankan authorities were assisting in securing the vessel while providing necessary food, accommodation and security for its 13 crew members.
The Foreign Minister further said Sri Lanka had not transported cargo or provided supply services to vessels subject to US sanctions.
He noted that Sri Lanka's strategic location meant that a large number of international vessels pass through waters near the island every day, and the country was required under international maritime law to provide necessary guidance and assistance to vessels operating in international waters.
