Foreign Minister promise solutions for Indo-Sri Lanka fishing dispute

COLOMBO (News 1st); The issue of engaging in illegal fishing by Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters has not concluded as of yet.

The fishermen's associations say that more than 100 Indian fishing vessels arrived in the Vadamarachchi East and Sulipuram seas off Jaffna last night (29).

The fishing gear of Sri Lankan fishermen have also been damaged due to these illegal Indian fishing vessels.

Point Pedro, Super Madam and Mailitti Fisheries Associations say fishermen's nets have also been destroyed due to the Indian fishing vessels.

As a result, most fishermen have returned to shore this morning without engaging in fishing.

Moreover, the nets of fishermen who set sail from Sulipuram in Jaffna were also damaged due to Indian fishing vessels.

The fishermen stated that they had lodged a complaint with the Wattukotte Police regarding the incident.

Meanwhile, the External Affairs Minister, Ptof. G.L. Peiris expressed concern over the invasion of Sri Lankan waters by Indian fishermen, and stated that clearly, the issue is still under discussion, and the best solution is for both parties to come to an agreement with regard to the issue.

According to the Minister, the Indian Government has proposed that Indian fishermen be trained in deep sea fishing, which is expected to assist in deescalating this problem without coming to Lankan waters.

In addition, the Indian Fishermen's Cooperative Societies and Sri Lankan Fishermen's Cooperative Societies should hold discussions to launch a practical solution in this regard, the Minister mentioned, adding that his desire is to find a lasting solution to this issue.