A special bilateral discussion was held today (04) at the Ministry of Fisheries between the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Mr. Ramalingam Chandrasekhar, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Norway, Mr. Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, focusing on the development of the Northern Province and the advancement of Sri Lanka's fisheries industry through modern technology.
Speaking at the event, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekhar recalled with appreciation the longstanding friendship between the people of Northern Sri Lanka and the Norwegian government. As a public representative who has worked closely with the people of the Jaffna and Kilinochchi districts for more than 15 years, the Minister expressed gratitude for Norway’s contribution to the peace process in Sri Lanka. He also noted that, after 76 years, the government has given priority to improving infrastructure in the region, based on the trust placed by the people of the North in the National People's Power Government.
The Minister briefed the Norwegian delegation on the prevailing poverty and socio-economic challenges in the Northern Province. He emphasized that nearly 60% of the population is facing severe hardships due to the microfinance debt trap, in addition to the difficulties experienced by communities affected by the war. The Minister further stated that the government has already launched several major development initiatives aimed at uplifting these communities, including the establishment of new industrial zones, the expansion of Palaly Airport, the development of the Myleddi Fishery Harbour, and the reopening of the Paranthan Chemical Factory.
He also highlighted that an international cricket stadium and an indoor stadium are currently being constructed in the Northern Province for the benefit of future generations.
Referring to the fisheries sector, the Minister stated that fish production and export earnings increased last year. He also expressed the expectation of receiving technical support from the Norwegian government for the further development of aquaculture in Sri Lanka.
Speaking at the meeting, the Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister commended Sri Lanka’s sustainable fishing practices and stated that Norway, as a leading fisheries nation, is ready to provide the necessary technical assistance to support the development of Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector.
Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekhar is scheduled to undertake an official visit to Norway in April. The Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister stated that he looks forward to the visit with great interest. He added that the visit would provide an opportunity to meet fisheries experts in Norway, exchange technical knowledge and expertise, and further strengthen fisheries cooperation between the two countries.
Ocean pollution and plastic waste management were also discussed during the meeting. Ministry Secretary Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa briefed the Norwegian delegation on the Fiberglass Recycling Project, which addresses the issue of fiberglass waste that has been accumulating in fishery harbours for over 15 years.
The discussion was also attended by the Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. May-Elin Stener, Senior Advisors of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms. Mariann Murvoll and Ms. Homma Latif, as well as senior officials of the Ministry of Fisheries.
