UK urges long-term solution to resolve tensions over Indian fishermen in SL waters

By Sunil Jayasiri  

The United Kingdom has last week urged the need for a long-term resolution to what they termed the ongoing issue of Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu being detained in Sri Lankan waters.  

In a recent statement to UK Parliament, Catherine West, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, highlighted the complexity of the situation and emphasized the need for a resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.  

West’s comments come amid increasing tensions over the arrests of Tamil fishermen, which has sparked diplomatic concerns. “A long-term solution is needed to resolve the complex issue regarding Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu poaching in Sri Lankan waters,” she stated.  

She also noted that there have been significant diplomatic developments, with recent discussions between Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit by the former to India in December 2024. These talks, which focused on the rights of fishermen, were welcomed by the UK government as a positive step forward in addressing the longstanding issue.