Unorthodox options adopted to release fishermen

Fisheries Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratna

Q: What has the Government done to secure the release of Sri Lankan fishermen held hostage by Somali Pirates?

A: The government had to rely on unorthodox options to secure the release of fishermen, since the pirates were not responding to diplomatic persuasion. In January last year the Somali pirates had killed two Lankan fishermen while taking another three hostage after their vessel had been adrift in the Indian Ocean. Those fishermen were rescued through a Somali intermediary and this time too the same procedure would be followed. Discussions are being held through an intermediary for the release of fishermen and their vessel.

Sri Lanka's economy stable

International Monetary Cooperation Senior Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama

Q: The Opposition says that the government's economic policies are wrong. What is your response?

A: Our economic policies are correct. Global surveys have indicated that Sri Lanka's economy is stable. Our country is no more a poor country while the European economy has dropped to negative territory in rating, Sri Lanka is rated B plus. That is why the IMF had appreciated Sri Lanka's economic performance.

Escalating fuel prices could retard economic growth

Petroleum Industries Minister Susil Premajayantha

Q: Will there be a fuel price hike?

A: The government would act on market fluctuation. The price of refined fuel has already risen from $ 122 to $ 130 a barrel and crude oil from $ 92 to $ 101. Escalating fuel prices could slow down our economic growth.

We have to weigh the pros and cons in this respect.