Sri Lanka’s Minister Tharaka Balasuriya Talks About Fishermen Issue with India

Sri Lanka’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tharaka Balasuriya, has brought attention to the ongoing problem of Indian fishermen being arrested by Sri Lankan authorities. He described it as a ‘persistent problem’ and stressed the importance of finding a solution for the sake of poor fishermen.

Balasuriya noted that thousands of boats from India come to Sri Lanka, causing issues for local fishermen. He suggested that improving connectivity and developing tourism in affected areas could provide alternative livelihoods.

Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin wrote to India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to secure the release of detained fishermen. Jaishankar assured that efforts are being made to address the interests of the Indian fishing community.

Regarding the Katchatheevu Island issue, Balasuriya mentioned that it has not been recently raised in bilateral discussions. He provided a brief history, noting that the island was accepted as Sri Lankan territory in 1974 under the ‘Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime agreement’.