Sri Lanka, India to ink pact on fishing boundary in Palk Strait

Tuesday, 29 January 2013 01:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

India and Sri Lanka are close to finalising an agreement on drawing a fishing boundary in the Palk Strait that would put an end to fishermen issues, Indian Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, V Narayanasamy said.

“The proposed agreement is in final stages. Both Indian and Sri Lankan Governments have agreed to the boundary proposals,” he said. The Minister said Sri Lankan and Indian fishermen have been called for talks to finalise the sea boundary for the purpose of fishing.

Expressing confidence that the agreement would be signed, Narayanasamy said both the Central and state governments have to take steps. He also sought the cooperation of the Tamil Nadu Government in finalising the agreement.

Sri Lankan has been accusing Tamil Nadu fishermen of poaching by crossing into their territory near Katchatheevu, known for its rich fish wealth, reported PTI.