Both Pakistan and India have conducted naval exercises with Sri Lanka despite ongoing concerns over the ill treatment of Tamil fishermen.
On Thursday, Pakistan concluded its visit having conducted training exercises with the Sri Lankan Navy and enabling a formal visit for members of the Sri Lankan navy to see the Pakistan Naval Ship (PNS) SAIF, which was docked in Colombo. Pakistan’s Navy reported that officials discussed matters of mutual interest signalling closer collaboration.
Pak Navy #PNS SAIF visited Colombo, Sri Lanka during its RMSP. Ship was received by Pak & Sri Lankan Navies officials & CO called on senior officials of Srilanka. During interactions, matters of mutual interests were discussed. #PNS SAIF also participated in Passage Exercise. pic.twitter.com/PgqiY8uc1j
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) February 2, 2024
India has similarly sent the India Navy Ship (INS) Karanj on a formal visit which has been welcomed by the Navy. This submarine is set to engage in similar naval exercises and will conclude its visit on Monday.
These visits come despite increased alarm over the treatment of Tamil Nadu fishermen. Last week, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M K Stalin, wrote to India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, regarding the “troubling pattern” of Sri Lanka’s navy apprehending Tamil Nadu fishermen.
He pointed out that these arrests not only infringe upon the traditional fishing rights of the fisherfolk community in Tamil Nadu but also contribute to a sense of fear and uncertainty among the fishing population. Often these detentions have resulted in cases of torture and deaths.