India asserts issues associated with fishermen need to be dealt with in humanitarian manner

The Indian High Commission yesterday reiterated that issues associated with Indian fishermen are to be dealt in a humanitarian manner.

Issuing a statement on the apprehension of 54 fishermen and five boats from India by Sri Lanka Navy on the night of 24 March, the High Commission said providing immediate consular access and emergency supplies to apprehend fishermen are of prime importance. 

“We are working with the Government of Sri Lanka for expeditiously securing consular access for these fishermen,” the statement said.

“Bilateral mechanisms are in place to comprehensively address all matters related to fisheries. It may be recalled that the fourth meeting of the Secretary-level JWG was held on 30 December 2020 through virtual mode. Follow-up measures on the basis of discussions which took place during the meeting need to be taken forward quickly,” the statement said.