Indo-Lanka: Repatriation of arrested fishermen discussed

Indian and Lanka Coast Guard today discussed various measures for the release and repatriation of arrested fishermen among other cooperation in the maritime security scenario.
A three member delegation led by Director General Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) Rear Admiral Samantha Wimalathunge, is on a three day visit to India from yesterday for talks with the Indian Coast Guard.
The Indian delegation was led by coast Guard chief Rajendra Singh.
The visit was in continuation of the various efforts by the two governments in furthering cooperation between the coast guards of two countries on maritime issues of mutual concerns to formulate a cooperative approach, a statement by the Indian Coast Guard said.

Of late the Lankan Coast Guard has been proactive in meeting the challenges in the new global safety and security regime in this region, the statement said.
The focus of the meeting was on further strengthening the operational level interaction for search and rescue, preservation & protection of marine environment, revalidating operational & communication procedures between the two coast guards.
Lankan delegation also called on the Defence Secretary G Mohan Kumar and deliberated on issues of common maritime interests.
During the high level discussions, it was mutually agreed to strengthen the cooperation on evolving collaborative approach, in addressing a spectrum of maritime issues concerning safety and security and further streamlining the procedure for release and repatriation of fishermen, the statement said.