Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s (SJB) Presidential Candidate and Leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa says that steps will be taken to turn both deep sea and freshwater fishing industries into a ‘smart industry’ under his government.
During a rally held in Puttalam, he highlighted his vision to initiate a public-private joint venture in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), on the country’s sea border.
He further added, “We are working to improve this fishing industry by making both marine and freshwater fishing industry into a smart industry, using new methods along with new technology.”
Premadasa emphasized that Sri Lanka’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending 200 nautical miles from the coast, was secured in the 1980s.
“We intend to direct this Exclusive Economic Zone towards sustainable development through collaborative public-private projects around the country and to bring in required resources and foreign investments into the country,” said Premadasa.
Additionally, Premadasa stated that he plans to enhance agriculture in the area not only by improving paddy cultivation but also improving crop production. He also expressed his goal to foster the development of ‘smart farmers’ and ‘smart fishermen’.
