The sixth meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) held in Colombo last week concluded without a final decision on the fishing dispute between the two countries, The Sunday Morning learns.

The sixth meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) held in Colombo last week concluded without a final decision on the fishing dispute between the two countries, The Sunday Morning learns.

Instead, it is learnt that the two countries have agreed to strengthen cooperation regarding the fishing dispute between the two nations, including enhanced surveillance and patrolling, maintaining regular communication through their hotline, and addressing operational matters.

The Indian delegation had also urged the Sri Lankan Government to expedite the release of Indian fishermen and their boats currently in Sri Lankan custody.

They had also highlighted the increase in detentions of Indian fishermen and boats, emphasising the need to adhere to established understandings and modalities regarding these issues.

The JWG was aimed at curbing illegal fishing activities by Indian vessels in Sri Lankan waters.

Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Ministry of Fisheries Secretary M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe said that the meeting had commenced with a comprehensive review of issues affecting fishermen and the fisheries sector.

He said that humanitarian concerns regarding the livelihoods of fishermen was a priority, emphasising that a humane, constructive, and cooperative approach was essential for resolving issues faced by fishermen on both sides.

The Indian delegation had raised concerns about recent tragic incidents at sea resulting in injuries and fatalities, reiterating the need to avoid the use of force under all circumstances. Both parties had reached an agreement on this point.

The Sri Lankan delegation, led by Wickramasinghe, included senior officials from the Foreign Ministry, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Navy, Coast Guard, and Attorney General’s Department.

The Indian side was led by Indian Department of Fisheries Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi and comprised senior officials from various ministries, the Government of Tamil Nadu, Navy, Coast Guard, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, and High Commission of India in Colombo.

Wickramasinghe noted that the Indian delegation had reiterated its request to schedule a meeting of fishermen’s associations between the two countries to discuss fishermen-related issues.

Both sides had agreed to hold regular meetings and comprehensive discussions to find a mutually acceptable and lasting solution. According to Sri Lanka Navy Media Spokesman Captain Gayan Wickramasuriya, the Navy has apprehended 62 boats and 462 fishermen engaging in illegal fishing activities so far this year.

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