Maldives confirms docking of research vessel from 'friendly country' China

Maldives on Tuesday released a statement on reports of the Chinese research vessel or 'spy' ship Xiang Yang Hong 3 and confirmed its docking in Male.

Maldives on Tuesday released a statement on reports of the Chinese research vessel or 'spy' ship Xiang Yang Hong 3 and confirmed its docking in Male.

China made a "diplomatic request" for "rotation of personnel and replenishment", the government of Maldives said in a statement.

Maldives also said that the island nation "has always been a welcoming destination for vessels of friendly countries".

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to inform that a diplomatic request was made by the Government of China to the Government of Maldives for necessary clearances to make a port call," the statement read.

The Chinese merchant vessel is expected to dock in Male on February 8. It was spotted in the Java Sea off the coast of Jakarta in Indonesia on January 22.