Was a new bilateral agreement made over Katchatheevu island?
An article published on the website of The Hindu newspaper headlined “Fifty years ago | Accord with Sri Lanka on Kachativu” claiming that a new agreement has been made regarding the boundaries of the Palk Strait and the Katchatheevu Island caught the attention of many on Friday (June 28).
by Anonymous |
July 2, 2024
The article read: “A comprehensive agreement has been reached between India and Sri Lanka on matters relating to the boundary between the two countries in the waters of Palk Bay and related issues including the question of Kachativu”, quoting “an official spokesman”.
Upon observing the article, FactSeeker investigated the said claim, and inquired with Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry PC if any agreements were made between the island and its neighbouring country, India.
Some media outlets picked up on the incident and reported on the said agreement.
“We have had no new discussions on the topic and hence no agreements whatsoever”, MP Sabry said.
The Minister added that as far as Sri Lanka is concerned, these are matters which were discussed and finalised 50 years ago at the highest level of the government and bilateral agreements. “Therefore we don’t see any reason to reopen discussions and we have not received any information whatsoever either” told FactSeeker .
Accordingly, FactSeeker refutes claims of new agreements being made between India and Sri Lanka regarding the boundaries of the Palk Strait and the Katchatheevu Island.
