Indo-Lanka talks on fisheries issues discussed

An Indian delegation visiting Sri Lanka to discuss issues related to the fisheries industries has expressed concern about the increase in detention of their fishermen and the heavy fines imposed.

The Indian side had urged the Government of Sri Lanka for earliest release of Indian fishermen and their boats under Sri Lankan custody.

Indian side also pointed out increase in detention of Indian fishermen and their boats in Sri Lankan custody, including imposition of long sentences and heavy fines, and stressed the need to uphold established understandings and modalities on issues related to fishermen.

The issues came during the 6th meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries held today (October 29, 2024)  in Colombo.

The Indian delegation was led by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India and included senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; Ministry of External Affairs; Government of Tamil Nadu; Navy; Coast Guard; Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute and High Commission of India in Colombo.

The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Mr. M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, and included senior officials from the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Navy, Coast Guard and the Department of the Attorney General.

Both sides agreed that the highest priority should be accorded to address the various issues faced by fishermen in a humanitarian manner as they pertain to livelihood concerns on both sides, the Indian High Commission said in a statement.

“They also agreed that only a humane, constructive and cooperative approach can create a durable basis for addressing the issues faced by fishermen on both sides”, the High Commission said.

The Indian side drew attention to the recent incidents at sea leading to unfortunate injuries and loss of lives, and strongly reiterated that the use of force should be avoided under all circumstances.

The Sri Lankan government is yet to release an official statement on the talks.

However,  Fisheries Ministry sources said that a wide range of discussions took place on the issue.