Trying to seek release of 88 fishermen, says Sri Lanka
June 2, 2011 12:52 am
Colombo (PTI): Sri Lanka said Wednesday that talks are underway to seek the release of the 88 of its fishermen who are under Indian custody.
“88 fishermen and 17 trawlers are under Indian custody,” Narendra Rajapaksa, the fisheries ministry spokesman said.
He said Colombo was working with the Sri Lankan High Commission in New Delhi to seek their release.
“We have warned Sri Lankan fishermen to restrict their fishing to Sri Lanka’s 200 mile zone and not to stray in to international waters for their catch”, Rajapaksa added.
Illegal fishing in each other’s waters by fishermen of both countries caused a flurry of diplomatic activity since January.
