Lanka to form new group: Rajitha

Sri Lanka is to form a new body of independent nations which are friendly towards her, Minister of Fisheries Rajitha Senaratne said on Saturday.

Dr. Senaratne revealed this plan when he met James A. Michel, the President of Seychelles during an official visit to the island recently. Minister said such a joint effort would help all member nations to develop economic ties.

“Both Sri Lanka and Seychelles are beautiful as both are islands. Both nations have many things in common when it comes to Fisheries and Tourism sectors. Therefore the two countries could develop these sectors through bilateral ties,” he said.

The Minister added that both nations could be turned into tourist attractions in the world through such a process.

Dr. Senaratne said Sri Lanka’s fish production increased to 444,890 metric tons which was highest in the history.

“The main reason for this he said is the nonuse of prohibited equipment for fisheries.

”He said lack of oxygen in the sea had made the fish to travel ashore. This he said had increased the fish production and had reduced the prices by 40 percent.

President Michel who responded said both countries could find themselves in a win-win situation especially when it comes to tourism sector. While stating that Sri Lanka had managed to develop its fisheries sector well, President Michael said Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector could be a role model for Seychelles.

“Seychelles could learn a lot from Sri Lanka in this situation,” he said requesting Sri Lanka’s support.