New Delhi, Nov 29 (UNI) India and Sri Lanka on Friday agreed that humanitarian aspect should be
key aspect when it comes to taking any decision on fishermen.
At the bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the visiting Sri Lankan President
Gotabaya Rajapaksa, various other matters concerning two nations, including terrorism, also figured prominently.
"The fishermen issue and their livelihood figured at the talks between us. There is broad agreement that constructive and humanitarian aspect ought to be key aspects when any decision is taken on them," the Prime Minister said at a joint press meet with Mr Rajapaksa.
The Sri Lankan President said the discussions were cordial. India has always assisted Sri Lanka in counter terrorism, he said, adding "We look forward to continue cooperation in this regard".
"For mutual security and to take concrete steps against terror menace, I had detailed talks with President Rajapaksa. Sri Lankan police and security personnel are taking training in various Indian institutes on counter terror measures," Mr Modi said.
Mr Modi also said a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka suits India as it also guarantees peace in the entire Indian Ocean region.
"A civilisational relationship nurtured through millennia. President Gotabaya on his first overseas visit since assuming office arrives in India on a State visit at PM Narendra Modi's invitation, demonstrating the strength and dynamism of India-Sri Lanka relations," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.
PM Modi announced USD 50 million to Sri Lanka to deal with security-related issues.
India's line of credit of USD 400 million will further boost Sri Lanka's development, he said and maintained, "I am confident that the new government will fulfill aspirations of Tamil community in Sri Lanka".
The Sri Lankan President said he is thankful to Prime Minister Modi for his "positive responses to many of the initiatives and proposals" made by his government.
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