Aus, SL discuss combating human smuggling

Australian Immigration and Citizenship Minister Chris Bowen met Justice Minister and SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem to discuss matters pertaining to mutual cooperation relating to human smuggling and relevant issues on May 3.

The ministers reviewed progress of action taken in this regard and discussed future legal, investigative and legislative matters combating human trafficking.

Minister Hakeem explained that Sri Lanka has enacted strong legislation in keeping with international standards in this regard.

Minister Bowen appreciated the proactive role played by the Sri Lankan government in this regard and expected this trend would continue in the future.

The ministers discussed the valuable contribution made by the Sri Lankan diaspora in Australia and stressed the need to encourage legal migration to Australia.

Minister Hakeem requested Australian government assistance to train judicial, administrative and investigative officials who are working to combat human trafficking.

He also explained the progress with regard to the proposed international arbitration centre in Colombo.

Australian ambassador Robyn Mudie and Justice Ministry officials also participated.