A top-level Sri Lankan delegation led by Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, successfully concluded an official visit to France.
The visit included two important meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in fisheries and maritime development.
The delegation met with senior officials from the State Secretariat for the Sea and Biodiversity of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture of France and State Secretariat for the Sea in Paris. The discussions focused on collective strategies, key challenges and essential mitigation efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Indian Ocean. French officials commended Sri Lanka for the proactive steps taken to combat IUU fishing and reiterated their commitment to support Sri Lanka in future efforts.
Fishery Harbour Development Discussions with Agence Francaise de Developpement (AFD)
The delegation then met with Ms. Catherine Simo of the Agency Française de Development (AFD), a development finance institution owned by the French government. Discussions were held on AFD’s potential support for the development of four important fishing ports: Galle, Beruwala, Puranawella and Kudawella.
Here, Ms. Simo stated that AFD is ready to re-engage and explore funding options, prioritizing Sri Lankan needs, following the successful completion of the debt restructuring process in Sri Lanka. It is expected to further strengthen financial and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and France through this procedure
Future Prospects and Next Steps
With the renewed optimistic expectations generated by these discussions, it is expected to proceed with the harbour development program. Considering the time that has passed since the inception of the project, a review of modernized feasibility study may be necessary to ensure the continued relevance and sustainability of the project. AFD intends to continue discussions with the Government of Sri Lanka to take this project forward and it is ready to take the next steps once the necessary government approvals are received.
This successful mission underscores the strong partnership between Sri Lanka and France in addressing important maritime and fisheries issues, and promises a future of enhanced cooperation and development.
