Indo-Lanka naval talks: Focus on joint efforts to curb illegal use of fishing craft, poaching

Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) has again drawn the attention of the Indian Navy (IN) to measures to be taken by both parties to prevent Indian fishing vessels from entering Sri Lankan waters, attacks on local fishermen and the destruction of their fishing gear.

The SLN took up the issue at the 31st International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting between the SLN and the IN held on a virtual setting at the Light House Galley, Colombo on Wednesday (29) They also discussed ways and means to prevent Sri Lankan and Indian fishermen from using their fishing vessels for smuggling of narcotics and contraband.

Held for the 31st time, the IMBL meeting focuses on exchange of views to overcome common challenges faced by both partners, while enhancing mutual understanding among navies as well as Coast Guards of two countries. The Sri Lanka Navy delegation for this year’s meeting was led by Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Priyantha Perera. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy delegation was headed by Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Puneet Chadha.

Amongst the main points of discussion from the Indian side; measures to curb smuggling across Indian waters, preventing the entry of Sri Lankan fishermen into Indian waters and actions to be taken to educate the Indian fishing community to prevent Indian fishing vessels from entering Sri Lankan waters were chief.

Moreover, the two sides reached a consensus at the meeting on increasing border patrols and strengthening information exchange mechanisms between them to curb illegal activities.

The meeting was organized in accordance with COVID-19 protocols and it was also attended by Director Naval Operations, Commodore Nishantha Peiris, Deputy Director General Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Commodore Janaka Nishshanka and a group of senior officers from the Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard.