India wants Sri Lanka to be more humane towards its fishermen

COLOMBO (News 1st) The 32nd International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting between the navies of India and Sri Lanka was held onboard SLNS Sayura at the Indo-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Line north of Kankesanthurai on 04th November 2022.

The IMBL meeting is held to strengthen relationships and exchange views on actions to be taken by the navies and Coast Guard personnel of two neighbouring countries to overcome common maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. 

The Sri Lankan delegation at the IMBL meeting was led by Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Aruna Tennakoon, whereas the Indian delegation was headed by Flag Officer Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral S Venkat Raman.

At this year's meeting, delegates from both sides discussed matters pertaining to the security of the maritime borders of both countries and exchanged views on the progress of previous meetings.

According to Indian media reports, the Indian delegation urged the Sri Lankan security agencies to show a more humane approach towards the Indian fishermen. Both delegations reiterated the need for expeditious information sharing, especially on issues that require immediate action.

The emphasis on the issue of Indian fishermen is noteworthy, given that the Sri Lankan Navy and Coast Guard have been arresting and seizing the boats of Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu, on allegations of transgressing into Lankan waters and poaching there. Given the proximate nature of the southern Tamil Nadu coast and the Northern Sri Lankan coast, there are differences in the perception of the International maritime boundary. 

The 32nd International Maritime Boundary Line(IMBL) meeting between India and Sri Lanka witnessed the discussion of Maritime Security and the safety of Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait. 

The Palk Strait is a narrow strip of sea that connects Southern India with Sri Lanka. The meeting provided a forum for the Navies and Coast Guards from both sides to further enhance mutual cooperation and synergy in operations.