Security Operations remains with Lankan’s Govt :Gotabaya

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajpaksa on Thursday said they are studying the security aspect of Hambantota port deal with China to ensure that the port control remain with the government.

Addressing a press conference for foreign journalists, Gotabaya said such ports are vital strategic centre and only Sri Lankan government should decide which military ships enter its territory.

He said even Chinese side have agreed that security operations should remain with Sri Lankan government and the issue was discussed with Chinese special envoy who visited him early this month.

The President said they are not worried about the commercial aspect but handing over security aspect can create issues with world powers.

Hambantota port was leased to a Chinese company for 99 years by previous government which India and western powers have been concerned about.