A general view of the "Colombo Port City" construction site, which is backed by Chinese investment, is seen in Colombo, Sri Lanka, August 9, 2016. Photo: Reuters Dinuka Liyanawatte

Reuters reports that Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan left Sunday for visits to Sri Lanka and Nepal, as China vies for increased influence in the region. China has invested in airports, roads, railways and ports in Sri Lanka as part of the One Belt, One Road initiative. The country allowed Chinese naval vessels to dock in the capital Colombo in 2014. China announced in December that the first ever military drill with Nepal will be held in 2017.

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