A high-level delegation from Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Ministry is set to visit India on September 25 to engage in official discussions aimed at resolving ongoing fisheries disputes between the two countries. The primary focus of the talks will be addressing concerns surrounding bottom trawling by fishermen from Tamil Nadu in Sri Lankan Northern waters.

R. Chandrasekar, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, emphasized that the discussions will aim to prevent Tamil Nadu fishermen from infringing on Sri Lankan territorial waters through bottom trawling, a practice that is banned under international regulations. The minister highlighted the impact of illegal fishing on local communities, stating that the objective is to put an end to unauthorized fishing activities adversely affecting Northern Sri Lankan fisherfolk.

Minister Chandrasekar also clarified that the negotiations will not cover issues related to Katchchathiyu, a subject that has often been raised in the Tamil Nadu State Assembly when Indian fishermen are detained by Sri Lankan authorities. This upcoming diplomatic engagement marks the first official-level talks on the fisheries dispute under Sri Lanka’s National People’s Power government since it assumed office.

The dispute has serious implications for fishermen on both sides of the maritime boundary. Recently, Northern Sri Lankan fishermen reported the presence of numerous Tamil Nadu bottom trawlers near Delft Island, a key fishing area, which forced local fishermen to return without a catch. This occurrence underscores the ongoing tension and the urgent need for a resolution to protect the livelihoods of coastal communities in the region.

The talks are expected to contribute to improved coordination between the two countries and foster measures to reduce illegal fishing activities, which have long been a point of contention in Sri Lanka-India bilateral relations. Further details on the outcomes of the discussions are anticipated following the delegation’s visit.