Oct 19, Hambantota: Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa Friday officially launched the Samudrika Research Vessel (Samudrika RV) of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) at the Hambantota Magam Ruhunupura Mahinda Rajapaksa International Harbor.

Samudrika RV, the first research vessel of Sri Lanka was lunched to conduct a wide range of ocean-based research to provide the country with valuable information on the island's oceans.

The ship is equipped with advanced technology and also with a laboratory essential for research activities. It has the capability of accommodating seven scientists to engage in day and night research.

The vessel will be used to provide data to the fisher fraternity where fish is rife.

The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry says the deployment of the vessel will certainly help in Sri Lanka's quest to become a maritime hub in Asia, a goal set in the in the Mahinda Chintana Future Vision.

Ministers Priyankara Jayaratne, Johnston Fernando, C. B Ratnayake, Mahinda Amaraweera and parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa, Chairman of Port Authority Priyath Bandu Wickrama also participated in the event.

(Photos by Chandana Perera)