The upcoming visit of the Indian Prime Minister and the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Sri Lanka will provide an opportunity to diplomatically address the Indo-Lanka fishing dispute, Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda said.
The Minister made these comments during a media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre on Tuesday (11).
Minister Devananda stressed that Indian fishermen encroaching across Sri Lankan borders and employing illegal fishing gear, adversely impacts the livelihoods of local fishermen.
During his recent visit to India, President Ranil Wickremesinghe addressed this matter with the relevant Indian authorities, he said, adding that the upcoming visits of the Indian Head of State and officials will provide an opportunity to seek solutions.
Efforts are also underway to enact new laws aimed at enhancing the fishing industry, safeguarding the interests of fishing communities, and preserving marine resources, the Minister said. (Newswire)