Poaching discussed in Rajapaksa-Modi talks

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday raised the issue of Indian fishermen poaching in Sri Lankan waters during talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.

The issue of poaching along with a range of subjects was taken up during the hour- long discussions between the two prime Ministers at ‘ Hyderabad House’ in New Delhi, where foreign dignitaries are normally housed on official visits.

A spokesman for Prime Minister Rajapaksa’s office said the issue of poaching was also taken up at the meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Sub rah many am Jayashankar.

“Both agreed to instruct their respective teams to work more closely together to find a lasting solution to this problem ( fisheries issue), which is both emotional and humanitarian," the spokesperson said.

Prime Minister Modi drawing reference to the issue said: “This impacts livelihood of people in both countries and we have decided to have constructive and humanitarian approach on the issue.”

Both Prime Ministers also discussed the issue of post-war reconciliation in Sri Lanka.

“We also discussed reconciliation and related issues with an open mind. I am confident that Sri Lankan government will meet the aspirations of Tamils in a united Sri Lanka based on equality, justice peace and respect,” Premier Modi said.

“It is necessary that the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution is carried out, apart from furthering the reconciliation process," he said.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa's spokesperson said the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka was “talked about broadly”. Both leaders also discussed further Indian cooperation to counter terrorism.

They noted during talks in New Delhi that Sri Lankan police officials had begun training in institutions in India. Premier Modi praised Sri Lanka for the country’s determination to work closely with India for regional security and development.

A series of other subjects including joint economic projects, further economic cooperation and investment matters also came up during an hourlong discussion.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa’s spokesperson said both sides talked about the importance of sharing intelligence while recalling that India shared intelligence before the Easter Sunday attack but no one at the time took it seriously and it had devastating results. “Prime Minister Modi also offered training for defence personnel in just about any aspect we needed."

Premier Rajapaksa also thanked the Indian government for its offer of US$ 400 million credit line and another US$ 50 million creditline for efforts in combatting terrorism.

Mr. Rajapaksa will end his four-day visit on Tuesday.