A special discussion was held on the 2nd at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan between the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Mr. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, who is currently on an official visit to Japan, and senior officials of the Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA).
This marks the first time that FRA, a premier fisheries research institution operating under the Government of Japan, has participated in a policy-level discussion with Sri Lanka. The meeting was attended by FRA Vice President Hideki Nikaido, Vice President Fujii Tetsuo, and Senior Research Scientist Rena Shibata.
The Minister highlighted several key areas requiring technological advancement and research collaboration to support the modernization of Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector:
1. Modern Vessel Design:
Seeking Japanese technical expertise to design modern fishing vessels that improve fuel efficiency, reduce operational costs, and comply with international safety standards.
2. Aquaculture and Product Development:
Obtaining necessary research support to introduce new trends and value-added fish products (Product Development) to the market in the aquaculture sector.
3. Biotechnology Research:
Strengthening cooperation between the research institutions of both countries in the field of marine resource-related biotechnology research.
The Minister also formally invited Japanese scientists and researchers to visit Sri Lanka and engage in joint research initiatives in these areas.
In response, FRA requested Sri Lanka to submit a detailed draft proposal outlining the country's specific requirements at the earliest opportunity. Both parties agreed to pursue future cooperation activities based on the proposals submitted.
The event was also attended by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Japan, Prof. Pivithuru Janaka Kumarasinghe, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa.
