Colombo (LNW): The US Department of Defence’s recent annual report to Congress indicates China’s potential interest in incorporating Sri Lanka into its international military logistics network.
Titled “Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China,” the report mentions that China may be looking at 18 countries, including Sri Lanka, for setting up People’s Liberation Army’s logistical facilities.
The intention behind this is to expand China’s capability to project its military power over greater distances.
Such an expanded global military logistics network could potentially hinder U.S. military operations.
The report also highlights China’s potential plans beyond its support base in Djibouti and cites a 2022 confirmation of the PLA’s access to parts of Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base.
Read full report: https://media.defense.gov/2023/Oct/19/2003323409/-1/-1/1/2023-MILITARY-AND-SECURITY-DEVELOPMENTS-INVOLVING-THE-PEOPLES-REPUBLIC-OF-CHINA.PDF
