Fishermen from Sri Lanka and India that use fishing vessels for smuggling narcotics and contraband into Sri Lankan waters was highlighted by the Sri Lankan delegation at the 31st International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting between the navies of both countries recently.
They emphasised the need to take joint steps to prevent such activities across Palk Straits. The 31st International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting between the Navies of Sri Lanka and India was held on a virtual setting at the Light House Galley, Colombo. The IMBL meeting focuses on exchange of views to overcome common challenges faced by both countries, while enhancing mutual understanding among the Navies as well as Coast Guards of two countries.
The Sri Lanka Navy delegation was led by Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Priyantha Perera while the Indian delegation was headed by Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Puneet Chadha.
Among the main points of discussion from the Indian side were measures to curb smuggling across Indian waters and prevent the entry of Sri Lankan fishermen into Indian waters through awareness campaigns.
The Sri Lankan delegation also drew the attention on measures to be taken by both parties to prevent Indian fishing vessels from entering Sri Lankan waters and assaults and destruction of fishing gear of local fishermen by Indian poachers.
The two sides reached a consensus at the meeting on increasing border patrols and strengthening information exchange mechanisms between either side to curb illegal activities.
The virtual meeting was organised 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.