Sri Lanka cancels entry of UN’s F. Nansen research vessel, risking over $1M in losses and jeopardizing future climate funding. Talks with UN ongoing.
Sri Lanka has denied a request from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to allow the research vessel F. Nansen to operate in its territorial waters between July 15 and August 20, citing procedural delays in updating its guidelines for foreign research missions.
According to official UN correspondence, the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources and Marine Environment formally informed the FAO on May 19 that the planned mission would be cancelled. The decision comes amid Sri Lanka’s ongoing review of its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for approving foreign research vessels—a process that remains incomplete.
The UN has expressed concern over the cancellation, warning that Sri Lanka stands to lose over $1 million in direct and indirect value from the mission’s termination. More critically, the move could damage the credibility and effectiveness of future climate adaptation projects linked to the Green Climate Fund—a vital resource for vulnerable nations combating climate change.
In its letter, the UN urged the Ministry to reconsider and allow the F. Nansen to proceed under the UN flag, a diplomatic mechanism often used to expedite multinational research or humanitarian initiatives. The UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Colombo has also offered to meet immediately to provide further clarifications and facilitate a solution.
As pressure mounts, Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Ministry has said it is re-evaluating the decision, contingent on formal government approval. A key meeting with the UN Resident Coordinator is expected to take place shortly, where all avenues will be discussed to potentially salvage the expedition.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that no definitive ruling has been made. A spokesperson revealed that a special committee has been appointed to update the SOPs, and its first meeting is expected “very soon.”
The final decision on whether to reverse the cancellation or allow the research under UN auspices remains pending. In the balance is not just $1 million in scientific investment, but Sri Lanka’s standing in ongoing global environmental initiatives.
