Discussions on India-SL territorial waters dispute underway

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Fisheries says that it is holding discussions with the Government of India regarding the fisheries issues caused as a result of Indian fishermen violating the territorial waters of Sri Lanka. The Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Indu Ratnayake said that plans are underway to hold discussions with the Indian and Sri Lankan fishing communities, adding that steps will be taken to resolve the issue expeditiously. According to Ratnayake, eight Indian fishing vessels that violated the territorial waters of Sri Lanka and are currently in Sri Lankan custody. She said that two of the boats were seized by security forces last week and 23 fishermen aboard the vessels have been quarantined. The Fisheries Ministry Secretary added that the relevant authorities have already been informed to take legal action against the fishermen who have violated the territorial waters of Sri Lanka.