Maldives releases Sri Lankan fishermen

The Maldives government has agreed to release crew members of four Sri Lankan fishing boats seized from the country’s territorial waters.

The decision was revealed by former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa following a meeting with the Maldives foreign minister in Colombo.

The four fishing boats were held by the coastguard in late February and March near the the northernmost Haa Alif atoll. The 25 fishermen onboard were arrested on charges of violating the country’s maritime border.

Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid gave assurances of their release during an official visit on Wednesday.

During the visit, Shahid also paid courtesy calls on Prime Minister Ranil Wikremesinghe and Home Affairs Minister Vajira Abeywardhane, during which he conveyed condolences and expressed sympathy over the Easter Sunday suicide bombings that killed more than 250 people last month.

“Foreign Minister also exchanged views on countering terrorism in the region and reiterated the Government of Maldives’ strong commitment in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism,” the foreign ministry said.

“Additionally, Foreign Minister Shahid highlighted the newly introduced changes to the resident visa regime by the Sri Lankan Government, and underscored the need to resolve and ease visa procedures for the mutual benefit of the two countries.”

Hon. Abudulla Shahid, Minister Foreign Affairs of Maldives called on me to convey condolences on behalf of his President & people for the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks. He also stated that his govt. had decided to release the 4 boats & the Sri Lankan fishermen in their custody. pic.twitter.com/nFotCaXVZe

— Mahinda Rajapaksa (@PresRajapaksa) May 8, 2019

Pleasure to meet PM @RW_UNP today. Assured Maldives solidarity with the people and Government of Sri Lanka. Discussed cooperation on visa issues and countering terrorism, among others. pic.twitter.com/KGaAhRrqlg

— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) May 8, 2019

Met with Hon Wajira Abeywardhana, @VajiraAbey Minister of Internal and Home Affairs of Sri Lanka and discussed the changes made by Sri Lanka to their visa regime. Very encouraged by the cordiality and the assurances. pic.twitter.com/8wAh1MUtua

— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) May 8, 2019

Leaving #Colombo after very productive meetings with #SriLanka leadership and greatly impressed by the resilience of the Sri Lankan spirit. #Maldives assures it’s complete solidarity and will always remain a true friend! pic.twitter.com/2ShMIWNFom

— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) May 8, 2019