Good News: 179 Sri Lankan fishermen will be released tomorrow.

The talk of the week has become Indian-Sri Lankan fisheries issue. Fisheries minister Rajitha Senaratne has told there will be a delegation going to New Delhi, India to negotiate to release 213 Sri Lankan fishermen and the 40 boats. Ms. Jayalalitha Jayaram, the chief minister of Tamil Nadu has announced today that she will order to release 179 Sri Lankan fishermen from Tamil Nadu jails. However, in a media briefing, Rajitha Senarathne has said, "We won't release Indian fishermen until all the Sri Lankan fishermen released by India. It is not only Tamil Nadu, but also Andra Pradesh also keeping SL fishermen and we want all to be released, if we consider to release Indian fishermen, 275 in number. This is an act for political gain on TN elections." However, I observed some of the mothers from the families who were detained, were so happy to the announcement of Jayalalitha Jeyaram. Some of the family members said, "We did not have Christmas this time. Our loved ones were kept in hunger and no care, how do we expect any Christmas celebrations?" There will be some talks between Indian diplomats and Sri Lankan diplomats and politicians on 15th January. But, as media says Minister Rajitha has cancelled the dialogue between people accordingly as scheduled on 20th January in Tamil Nadu. Minister Rajitha says, there should be a permanent solution to the issues between countries. We also emphasis the same. There should be a permanent system developed and to take part the necessary stake holders in the negotiation table for the same issue. Do the authorities desired to continue their efforts for a permanent solution based on UNCLOS. Herman