A special discussion was held between the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Matthew Duckworth, and the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekhar, regarding the Australian Government’s support for the reconstruction of Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector, which was affected by the recent floods.
The meeting, which was chaired by the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekhar, was also attended by the First Secretary of the Australian High Commission, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, and Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Susantha Kahawatte.
Minister Chandrasekhar elaborated on the severe damage caused to the fisheries sector due to the adverse weather conditions. In particular, he highlighted the impact on the small-scale fishing community in the Northern and Eastern provinces, the destruction of nets and gear, and the total or partial damage to vessels.
In response, the High Commissioner expressed his deep regret and assured that the Australian Government would explore all possible avenues of assistance to the affected community.
In addition, the sustainability of the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), which was donated by the Australian Government to the Department of Fisheries, was also discussed. The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Australian Government for providing this system, which is of utmost importance for monitoring fisheries activities. High Commissioner Duckworth reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to the project and stated that he would explore the possibility of providing further support to ensure the continued and sustainable operation of the system.
Following the discussion, the High Commissioner and the First Secretary visited the Vessel Monitoring System Unit at the Department of Fisheries and observed its operations first-hand.
The meeting concluded on a very cordial note, further strengthening the bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Australia and opening new avenues for enhancing cooperation in the fisheries sector.
