President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said extensive discussions on the Sri Lanka–India fishing issue were held during the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at an election rally in Mannar, the President emphasized the district’s strategic significance.
“Mannar represents a region of strategic importance for our nation’s development. This coastal district boasts not only natural beauty but also abundant valuable resources that contribute to our national prosperity,” he said, adding that the fishing industry is the primary livelihood for much of the local population.
He raised concerns over unauthorized fishing activities in the Pesalai area, stating that illegal vessels were causing significant damage to the marine ecosystem.
“We have identified concerning instances of unauthorized fishing operations in the Pesalai area, where illegal vessels are causing substantial harm to our marine ecosystem. During the recent visit of the Indian Prime Minister, we held extensive discussions in this regard,” he said.
The President affirmed that Sri Lanka’s marine resources belong to its people and that the government is taking active measures to address the issue. “Our seas and marine resources rightfully belong to our people. Therefore, we are taking active steps to resolve this issue.”
He added that the Sri Lanka Navy has been directed to take firm action against illegal activities in the country’s territorial waters.
“It is the responsibility of our armed forces to protect our maritime resources, and we are committed to fulfilling that duty,” he said.
The longstanding fishing dispute between Sri Lanka and India, particularly involving Indian trawlers crossing into Sri Lankan waters, has been a source of tension between the two countries.
Both the Sri Lankan and Indian governments said that the matter was taken up for discussion during Premier Modi’s visit earlier this month, but did not disclose further details. (Newswire)
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