Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has expressed Colombo’s deep concern over the issue of Indian fishermen entering Sri Lankan waters, while also emphasizing Sri Lanka’s willingness to be a “complementary partner” in India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Speaking at a civic reception hosted by the India Foundation on Saturday, Amarasuriya said the problem of Indian fishermen engaging in bottom trawling and illegal fishing continues to trouble fishermen in northern Sri Lanka, who are still rebuilding their livelihoods after decades of conflict.
“This is a matter that requires sensitive handling and sustainable solutions,” she noted, adding that both countries remain in constant dialogue to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
The event, attended by former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, as well as several Union ministers and diplomats, marked the final engagement of Amarasuriya’s three-day official visit to New Delhi.
During her visit, she held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and other senior Indian officials. The talks also addressed the welfare of Indian fishermen, a long-standing and sensitive issue between New Delhi and Colombo, particularly concerning arrests and boat seizures near Katchatheevu Island.
