In a move to make relation better in between neighbour countries, 52 Indian fishermen were detained for poaching following India’s release of 20 Sri Lankan fishermen.
The spokespersons in the External Affairs Ministry said that the release of the fishermen was part of a process and understanding reached between Indian government and government of Sri Lanka prior to the talks.
The fishermen and their boats were released today after India freed the Sri Lankans held in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, said Sri Lankan Fisheries Ministry spokesman Narendra Rajapakse.
Fisheries Minister Rajitha Senaratne will visit India on Wednesday for further talks on fishermen held by the two countries, said foreign ministry.
Notify that a total of 283 Indian fishermen and 89 trawlers are in Sri Lankan custody, while 181 Sri Lankan fishermen and 34 trawlers are being held in India.
The spokesperson said that out of 52 Indian fishermen, 20 were released from Mallakam and 32 were released from Trincomali while adding that 52 Sri Lankan fishermen were freed from Tamil Nadu.
He said, “The government attaches the highest importance to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. It has worked assiduously to secure the release of Indian fishermen, who are apprehended by the Sri Lankan authorities on charges of fishing in Sri Lankan waters.”
He said, adding “keeping in mind the humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of the fishermen’s issue, the two countries have reached an understanding to put in place practical measures to deal with bona fide Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).”
Bureau Report
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