A magistrate’s court in Trincomalee in Sri Lanka today extended the remand of 111 Indian fishermen caught by the Sri Lankan Navy earlier this month on charges of violating the international maritime boundary. The court has set 6th of January as the next date to review the case.

Earlier the same court had extended the remand of two groups of 30 fishermen each. These decisions follow the statement by Sri Lankan Fisheries Minister Rajitha Senaratne that no Indian fishermen or their boats will be released until India releases over 200 Sri Lankan fishermen who are in India’s custody.

According to Mr Senaratne, a meeting of representatives of fishermen’s associations of the two countries is likely to take place next month. Mr Senaratne is also likely to visit New Delhi next month to discuss the issue with Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, who holds the charge of fisheries department.