India-Sri Lanka Joint Task Force to convene in Colombo to address fisheries disputes

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Task Force will hold its sixth meeting tomorrow (29) at the Mahaweli Center in Colombo, as confirmed by M
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concerns, especially the ongoing issue of bottom trawling by Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters.Since assuming office, President Anura
directive, the Ministry of Fisheries has engaged with Indian authorities through diplomatic channels to tackle this issue
collaboratively.The meeting will focus on curbing the operations of approximately 400 to 500 Indian trawlers that enter Sri Lankan waters
around three times a week, posing significant threats to the marine ecosystem and local fisheries.Furthermore, Wickramasinghe said that
steps will be taken to inform Indian officials about the stringent legal actions that will be enforced against Indian fishermen engaging in
this illegal fishing practice.The upcoming session follows five previous meetings, with the most recent round held in Sri Lanka on March 22,
2022
Both nations are expected to explore constructive solutions to the ongoing trawling crisis while reinforcing their commitment to sustainable
fishing practices and preserving marine biodiversity.