Sri Lankan authorities are looking to initiate a dialogue with the Indian High Commissioner regarding the Indo-Sri Lanka fisheries-related conflict, The Morning learnt.
Speaking to The Morning, Ministry of Fisheries Secretary R.M.I. Rathnayake said that the discussion with the Indian High Commissioner will be held over the coming weeks.
“The three-member committee appointed by Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda to make recommendations on the issue of the Indian fishermen trespassing in local waters would give recommendations as context for this discussion,” said Rathnayake.
According to Rathnayake, the progress concerning issues faced by Sri Lankan fisher folk and finding a permanent solution to stop the illegal fishing activities of Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters will be the key issues taken up at the discussion table.
“Both Devananda and the State Minister of Ornamental Fish, Inland Fish and Prawn Farming, Fishery Harbour Development, Multi-Day Fishing Activities, and Fish Exports Kanchana Wijesekera are preparing for the discussion where they would focus on maintaining healthy Indo-Sri Lanka relations,” she added.
A three-member committee was appointed to probe the issue concerning Indian fishermen trawling in Sri Lanka’s maritime boundary by Fisheries Minister Devananda.
It consists of senior officials from the ministry and the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, as well as representatives of fisheries unions.
When questioned about the progress regarding the committee's recommendations to provide a permanent solution to prevent Indian fishermen from entering Sri Lanka’s maritime boundary, Rathnayake said that she is unable to reveal any facts since it is an internal committee to discuss related matters.
The Morning contacted the Indian High Commission regarding the proposed meeting but a commission spokesperson refused to comment on the matter.
GoSL to discuss Indian fishermen with HC
09 Feb 2021
GoSL to discuss Indian fishermen with HC
09 Feb 2021