India discusses fisherman issues and energy security with Sri Lanka

External Affairs Minister of India (EAM) S Jaishankar met Sri Lankan Foreign Minister G L Peiris in New Delhi and discussed prospects of economic investment initiatives to strengthen the island nation and exchanged views on the fishermen issue.

Jaishankar said he held productive talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart that focused on additional steps to enhance Sri Lanka's energy security. Both ministers recognized the importance of greater tourism for economic recovery. They also noted the importance of people to people linkages through greater connectivity.

"Productive talks with Sri Lankan FM G L Peiris. Discussed economic and investment initiatives that will strengthen Sri Lanka at this time. Also focused on additional steps to enhance Sri Lanka's energy security," Jaishankar tweeted.

"Exchanged views on the fishermen issue and agreed that bilateral mechanisms should meet early. Recognized the importance of greater tourism for economic recovery. Also noted the importance of P2P linkages through greater connectivity," he said in a subsequent tweet.

Last month, a group of Indian fishermen were allegedly attacked by Sri Lankan Navy personnel when fishing near the island nation's waters. A boat was sunk following a collision, according to Indian media reports.

The incident had taken place near Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu in India.

Peiris's three-day visit now comes as Sri Lanka is facing economic hardship back home.

(ANI)