Sunday, November 07, 2004
India, Sri Lanka to sign defence accord
Press Trust of India
New Delhi, November 7: Marking a new dimension in their bilateral relations, India and Sri Lanka on Sunday agreed to sign a defence cooperation agreement and set up a joint working group (JWG) to deal with the issue of fishermen straying into each other's territorial waters.
The two sides decided to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the rehabilitation of the Palaly Airfield in Jaffna peninsula, a joint press release issued at the end of the five-day visit of Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga in Delhi said.
The Indian side also agreed to carry out the refit of the Sri Lankan naval ship 'Sayura' and underwrite the costs.
Kumaratunga briefed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other leaders on the current status of the peace process in the island nation and the steps she has taken to advance it futher.
On its part, India reaffirmed its support for the process of seeking a comprehensive, negotiated settlement acceptable to all communities of Sri Lanka, and reflecting the pluralistic nature of the society in that country, "within the framework of a united Sri Lanka and consistent with democracy and respect for individual rights."
New Delhi maintains an abiding interest in the security of Sri Lanka and remains committed to its unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, the release said.
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