With the aim of further strengthening cooperation between Sri Lanka and Norway in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, a special discussion took place yesterday (16) at the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources. The meeting was held between the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Mr. Ramalingam Chandrasekhar, and the Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Norway for Bergen–Vestland Fylke, Mr. Sturle H. Pedersen
The Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B. K. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa, was also in attendance.
During the discussion, considerable attention was given to the Minister’s scheduled official visit to Norway in April. Mr. Pedersen noted that the current government’s commitment to corruption-free governance has significantly boosted confidence among international investors, particularly those from Norway. He further emphasized that the Minister’s visit presents a valuable opportunity to attract new investments into Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector.
The primary focus of the dialogue was to strengthen Sri Lanka’s Blue Economy with the support of Norway, a global leader in advanced fisheries technologies. Key areas identified for collaboration included:
- Marine research and sustainable fisheries management
- Maritime innovation
- Modernization of fisheries port infrastructure and fishing fleets
- Strategic investments through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to build a resilient, technology-driven fisheries industry
The discussion also explored avenues to continue engagement with Norwegian institutions and industry leaders, with the goal of enhancing the livelihoods of Sri Lanka’s coastal communities while ensuring the sustainable management and protection of ocean resources.
