COLOMBO : Sri Lanka’s Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic, and Ocean Resources, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, stated that the country is taking all necessary steps to safeguard its marine and aquatic resources and is ready to implement modern technological solutions to achieve this goal.
The international exhibition “Aqua Planet Sri Lanka – 2025”, held in conjunction with World Fisheries Day, was inaugurated on Friday November 21 at the Lotus Tower premises. The event, attended by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarassuriya as the chief guest, was organized under the leadership of Minister Chandrasekar.
The exhibition features a wide range of live fish and marine organisms, modern technological equipment, and various marine applications. It will remain open continuously from Saturday until the following day, with free entry for all visitors. The Ministry highlighted that the event provides an especially valuable experience for students and the younger generation.
Following the inauguration ceremony, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative stamp to mark World Fisheries Day, and the official Fisheries Retirement Pension Scheme was launched. Additionally, certificates of recognition were presented to fishermen who adhered to all legal regulations, acknowledging their contribution to the industry.
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Fisheries Ratna Gamage, Deputy Minister of Defense Major General Aruna Jayasekara, Deputy Minister of Industries Mahinda Jayasinghe, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, Ministry Secretary Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Director of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources S.J. Kahawatta, representatives from FAO and BOBP-IGO, delegates from South Asian countries, and numerous foreign diplomats.
In his remarks, the Minister emphasized that the exhibition is one of the largest of its kind in the region. He noted that Sri Lanka’s participation on such an international platform is a source of national pride and will help draw global attention to the country.
The Minister stressed that, with full support from the government and the President, the protection of the nation’s oceanic and aquatic resources should remain a top priority for the future. He also highlighted strict measures being taken to eliminate illegal fishing practices that damage the country’s marine resources.
Furthermore, the Minister noted that the Navy is currently playing a direct role in national development programs, moving beyond its traditional responsibilities to advance national security while serving the public interest.
