Indo- Lankan experts to
meet again on Canal Project
[July
28, 2005 - 08.30 GMT]
The second meeting of the experts of the
Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project (SSCP) will take place in New Delhi
on the 1st of August. The first meeting took place in
Colombo recently.
According to a Foreign Ministry communiqué the Sri Lankan delegation
will include among others, representatives from the
National Aquatic
Resource Agency,
Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and the Marine Pollution
Prevention Authority Institute. The hydraulic aspects of the project and
its impact on marine eco-systems will be among the principal issues that
would be taken up at the meeting.
The Government of Sri Lanka has consistently conveyed its concerns
relating to the SSCP, particularly in environment and livelihood areas.
The two countries agreed to exchange views at expert level in order to
address Sri Lanka's concerns and reach a common understanding on how to
monitor and mitigate any adverse impact on Sri Lanka.
As outlined in foreign minister Lakshman Kadirgamar's statement in
parliament on 7th July 2005, Sri Lanka appreciates the constructive
attitude and assurances by the political leadership of India, that Sri
Lanka's concerns on SSCP will fully taken into account. The foreign
minister also expressed the hope that in keeping with the political
understanding reached at the highest level, the relevant Indian
authorities would pursue these policies by cooperating with the Sri
Lankan authorities to implement joint monitoring and mitigating
measures'. Sri Lankan believes that the development and protection of
the sensitive marine life and eco system in the Palk Bay area is a
shared concern to be addressed jointly.
The government is committed to continuing the process of the
consultation on the SSCP with the Indian government.
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Last Updated
Date: July 28, 2005 - 08.30 GMT |
