Sri Lanka and India agree to free fishermen held in both sides

 

Sri Lankan and Indian governments after a high-level discussion between the two sides today (March 9) have agreed to release the fishermen held in each other’s custody following the killing of an Indian fisherman. Lanka would release 85 Indian fishermen, the source said, adding that India would free at least 19 Lankan fishermen.“This move is being made to defuse the current tensions,” the source added. Fisheries Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said he had spoken with Indian High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu on the situation. In New Delhi, an Indian official said that India was engaged with Sri Lanka on the issue and their approach is “positive”.Tamil Nadu fishermen have accused the Sri Lankan Navy of opening fire at the fisherman, but the Sri Lankan Navy has denied the charge.