Meeting of the Joint Working Group on Fisheries
The 6th meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries was held 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, Government of Sri Lanka.
It included senior officials from the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Navy, the Coast Guard, and the Department of the Attorney General.
The delegations undertook a comprehensive review of all relevant issues about fishermen and the fisheries sector.
Both sides agreed that the highest priority should be accorded to addressing the various issues faced by fishermen in a humanitarian manner as they pertain to livelihood concerns on both sides. They also agreed that only a humane, constructive, and cooperative approach can create a durable basis for addressing the issues fishermen face on both sides.
The Indian side urged the Government of Sri Lanka for the earliest release of Indian fishermen and their boats under Sri Lankan custody.
The Indian side also pointed out an increase in the detention of Indian fishermen and their boats in Sri Lankan custody, including the imposition of long sentences and heavy fines.
It stressed the need to uphold established understandings and modalities on fishermen-related issues.
Highlighting the ongoing cooperation between the Indian Naval & Coast Guard authorities and their Sri Lankan counterparts, both sides agreed to continue enhanced cooperation, including surveillance and patrolling, maintaining regular contacts through their hotline, and all other operational matters.
The Indian side drew attention to the recent tragic incidents at sea leading to unfortunate injuries and loss of lives. It strongly reiterated that the use of force should be avoided under all circumstances.
The Indian side also reiterated its request to schedule the meeting of Fishermen Associations between the two countries as soon as possible to discuss further the issues related to fishermen.
The two sides agreed to meet regularly and continue to have comprehensive discussions on the issues related to fishermen to find a mutually acceptable and long-lasting solution.