A special official meeting was held yesterday morning (15) between the High Commissioner of Canada to Sri Lanka, Ms. Isabelle Martin, and the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Mr. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, at the Ministry premises.
As the current government approaches its second year in office, the Minister briefed the High Commissioner on the measures undertaken by the President-led administration to stabilize the country’s economy and establish a governance culture free from corruption. The Minister also expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government of Canada for its continued support to Sri Lanka and its fishing communities, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters such as Cyclone ‘Ditwah’.
Referring to the peaceful environment currently prevailing in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, the Minister highlighted that renewed hope has emerged among the people through the removal of long-standing roadblocks, the reopening of major transportation routes after decades, and the regularization of the land release process. He also recalled the historic mandate given by the people of the Northern Province in support of national unity.
The Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, who participated in the discussion, stated that the government’s objective is to transform Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector from a traditional livelihood-based activity into a modern and developed industry. In this regard, he expressed interest in exploring opportunities to benefit from Canada’s advanced expertise in biotechnology, modern vessel design, and aquaculture technologies.
The Canadian High Commissioner emphasized that, under Canada’s new Indo-Pacific Strategy, priority will be given to strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka in the areas of maritime security and fisheries development. Both parties also agreed to pursue further discussions on investment opportunities and technical cooperation through the preparation and submission of a comprehensive proposal.
The meeting was attended by several officials, including the Head of the Political and Commercial Section of the Canadian High Commission.
