In a significant gesture underscoring growing bilateral goodwill, Sri Lanka on Sunday Released 14 Indian Fishermen, DURING The Visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Island Nation.
The release followed detailed discussions between PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake Earlier on Saturday, DURING which which long the long-standing issue of fishermen’s was taken up.
The prime minister, during his remarks at a joint press briefing, said, “We discuss the fishermen’s issues. We agreed that we should move forward in this matter with Immediate release of the fishmen and the return of their boats. “
The Arrest of Indian Fishermen, Primarily from Tamil Nadu, by Sri Lankan Authorities for Alleged Poaching in Sri Lankan Wates Has Been A Recurring Point of Tension.
Since the beginning of 2025, 119 Indian fishermen and 16 fishing boats have reportedly been apprehended by Sri Lankan Forces, Raising Concerns Among Coastal Communities and Prompting Repeated Apples for Intervention.
Addressing a press conference following the talks, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Said, “We have been informed that the sri lankan authorities have taken authorities have taken a decision to release Few more in the coming days. ”
“This was a subject that was discused in considerable detail between the two sides. Approach to Cooperation on these issues if these are ultimately issues that impact the livelihood of fishermen on both sides, “Misri Added.
The release of 14 Indian Fishermen Comes AMID A Series of Key Diplomatic and Developmental Engages Maho -amanthai Railway Track and the Newly Constructed System for the Maho-Nuradhapura Segment.
In a history, Prime Minister Modi was also confirred the prestigious Sri Lanka Mitra Mitra Vibhushan Award – One of the Island Nation’s Highest Civilian Honors.
The accolade recognies not only India’s steadfast support to Sri Lanka but also PM Modi’s Commitment to Deepening Bilateral Relations.
On Saturday, the two leaders also witnessed the signing and exchange of multiple memorandums of undersrstanding (MOUS) across across sector, include infrastructure, energy, and development cooperation.
On saturday evening, president Dissanayake hosted a state banquet at the president’s house in honor of Prime Minister Modi.
Extending a warm welcome, the sri lankan president said the visit would further expand avenues of cooperation and Deepen the friendship between the people of the people.
“We are known for our hospitality and extend a warm welcome to all visitors. In Particular, I Recall that our friends from affected the palk strait are received with the utmth and affection,” Dissanayake said.
“We hope to see the citizens of your nation visit this wonderful island continuously, where they will meet warm-hearted communities,” He further said.
“We eagerly anticipate your return, ready to welcome you back with open arms. Prosperity of Indian Citizens, as well as for the strengthing cooperation and friendship between our two nations, “The Sri Lankan President Added.