MV X-PRESS PEARL: International expertise will be sought to assess damage

COLOMBO (News 1st): The attention has been drawn to seek the assistance of international legal advisers with regard to the future action on the damage caused by the distressed vessel MV X-PRESS PEARL, Sri Lanka's Minister of Environment said. "A team of Sri Lankan lawyers will be appointed to look into the matter. Based on their recommendations, the government intends to act in accordance with the International Maritime Law if the need arises," Mahinda Amaraweera, the country's Minister of Environment said. According to Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is also set to appoint a Committee of Experts consisting of officers from various ministries and experts from universities, to ascertain the level of damage due to the MV X-PRESS PEARL. "International expertise will also be sought if required to ascertain the damage and seek compensation. The government will take all measures to ensure the safety of the Sri Lankan environment," Minister Amaraweera further noted.