Foreign ministry has expressed regret over 'misinterpretations' by media regarding the summit

In a statement after the conclusion of two day India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on Fisheries, the foreign ministry said some media reports were based on “misinterpretations” and did not reflect the “cordial, friendly and constructive manner” of the talks.

“While maintaining their respective positions, including on the issue of traditional fishing rights, both sides expressed the genuine desire of their governments to enhance cooperation that would allow the fishermen of the two countries to pursue their fishing activity in a safe, secure and sustainable manner,” it said.

Fisheries Minister Rajitha Senaratne on Saturday told BBC Tamil service that the high level Indian delegation agreed to withdraw their long held view of “traditional fishing rights” in Sri Lankan waters after Sri Lankan delegation explained that it is wrong to argue for such a right under International Maritime Boundary Line.

The Indian government, added the minister, also agreed to withdraw all lawsuits against Sri Lankan fishermen in Indian courts and not to arrest anymore Sri Lankan fishermen.

The Sunday Times newspaper, however, said there have been strong differences of opinion over many issues between the two delegations and the summit ended without an agreement.

“In diplomatic parlance, Sri Lanka’s main demand that India ensure that its fishermen do not stray into Sri Lanka’s territorial waters drew no positive response that warrants a mention in the joint statement,” said the newspaper.