Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekar has said that extremists operate both in the South and, to some extent, in the North, and that they often ignore the genuine needs of the people. Minister Ramalingam alleged that these extremists try to obstruct development efforts, the Ministry said.

The Minister said so when the Australian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Matthew Duckworth met him at the National People’s Power (NPP) office in Jaffna.

The Minister also assured that, unlike in the past, strong security guarantees have now been firmly established under the NPP administration, creating a conducive and confidence-building environment for diaspora Tamils and foreign investors to invest in Sri Lanka without hesitation.

During the meeting, the High Commissioner and the Minister engaged in extensive discussions on key political, economic and development-related issues. Particular attention was given to the long-standing friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Australia, partnerships founded on democratic values, and the prevailing situation in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province.

The discussions also focused on post-conflict development efforts in the North, governance reforms, transparency, accountability and the evolving political culture under the administration of the National People’s Power.

Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar expressed his sincere gratitude to the Australian Government for the humanitarian assistance extended to the people of Sri Lanka affected by Cyclone Ditwah. He noted that standing with people beyond political differences during times of disaster is a true reflection of genuine international friendship. The Minister also briefed the High Commissioner on the ongoing national programmes aimed at restoring normalcy and strengthening resilience.

Highlighting the growing public trust in the government, particularly in the Northern Province, the Minister emphasised that development programmes are being implemented in a manner that safeguards this trust. He elaborated on development initiatives currently underway in the North, under the NPP-led administration, stating that these efforts are backed by firm political decisions to transform post-war reconstruction from promises into tangible action.

Special emphasis was placed on strengthening the fisheries sector, protecting aquatic resources and promoting the marine economy in ways that directly enhance the livelihoods of the northern communities. The Minister further explained that the proposed investment zones in the Northern Province are designed not merely as land allocations, but as comprehensive projects that generate employment, facilitate technology transfer and ensure a balanced regional economic development.

Calling for Australian cooperation in these investment initiatives, Minister Chandrasekar encouraged Australian investors, as well as members of the Sri Lankan diaspora living in Australia, to actively participate in Sri Lanka’s development journey. He urged the High Commissioner to play a facilitative role in easing diaspora and foreign investment engagement, noting that overseas Sri Lankans—particularly those investing in the Northern Province—can become a vital force in promoting national unity, economic equity and sustainable development.

The Australian High Commissioner stated that the National People’s Power government clearly reflects the emergence of a corruption-free administration. He observed that governance, based on transparency, the rule of law and accountability, has earned the confidence of the international community. He further assured Australia’s full support for the development of the Northern Province.

Duckworth affirmed that Australia is keen to explore investment opportunities, industrial development prospects, job creation and sustainable economic growth in the North, and that Australia recognises and welcomes development efforts supported by political stability and clear policy direction.

Emphasising reconciliation, the High Commissioner remarked that racism must be defeated in Sri Lanka, and that the deep wounds and trauma, embedded in people’s lives over decades, must be healed. True reconciliation, he said, should be born in the country itself, grounded in justice and equality, and not remain merely a slogan.

The meeting was attended by National People’s Power Members of Parliament K. Ilangumaran, J. Rajeevan and Sri Bhavanandaraja, Jaffna Municipal Councillor S. Kabilan, representatives of the Australian High Commission, and several other invitees.