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Iceland to improve fisheries ties with Lanka
Experts from Iceland have identified areas where the local fishing industry can be improved by exploiting hitherto untapped resources. Arni Helgason, Deputy Director General of Icelandic International Development Agency (ICEIDA) and Tumi Tomasson, UN Fisheries Training Programme, both Fish Biologists by profession, carried out a feasibility study on the possibilities of improving the local fishing industry.

Mr. Helgason said their study which looked into aspects such as stock assessment, fisheries facility development, development of commercial and deep-sea fishing, showed that there was immense potential for improving the local industry if it was directed by clear policies.

Iceland, a fishing nation with an annual catch of 2 million tons, is equipped with the technical expertise and necessary financial capability. It has sought a Government-to-Government deal to explore the possibilities of exploiting the untapped fisheries resources.

Further the Icelandic Government would try to promote possible joint-ventures between Sri Lankan and Icelandic companies. At present six Sri Lankan Fisheries Department officials are in Iceland on a six-month United Nations Fisheries Training Programme and three Sri Lankans would be selected every year for training.

Mr. Helgason said he was impressed with the qualified and competent work-force of Sri Lanka, although there is a limitation of funds and technical assistance. "Definitely there are areas in which Sri Lanka and Iceland can cooperate to reap benefits for both countries."

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