India and Sri Lanka need to guard themselves - envoy

Countries making their presence in the Indian Ocean should respect the geographical reality, individuality, and security of the nations in the region, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India Sudharshan Seneviratne has said. Mr. Seneviratne, who is on a four-day visit to the State to foster ties between Kerala and Sri Lanka on various sectors, including tourism, was replying to questions at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. On the problems faced by Indian fishermen, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner said it was a human, economic, and social problem and the two governments were sorting it. The poor fishermen would be affected if the ecosystem was destroyed by trawlers. Both the governments were aware of the security issues and chances of drugs and arms smuggling, he said. “India and Sri Lanka need to guard themselves. A mutual interest and understanding is needed. We have to support India for safeguarding us and India should do vice-versa,” the High Commissioner said. Mr. Seneviratne said “we do not want others to come and advice us. We are a historical society for 100 years. We can resolve issues through discussions.” Stating that Kerala has a high priority for Sri Lanka, the High Commissioner said they were working for new initiatives and there were “good vibrations.” “There are plus points for take off for short term and long term. There is an ideal platform,” he said. A team of investors will be visiting Kerala in August to hold talks with Chamber of Commerce and captains of industry. The Sri Lankan High Commissioner called on the Governor, P. Sathasivam; Chief Minister Oommen Chandy; and Ministers P.K. Kunhalikutty, A.P. Anil Kumar, Anoop Jacob, and Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan; and held discussions. (The Hindu)