Jan 15, Colombo: The India - Sri Lanka Joint Study Group, which has been set up to explore ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, has recommended that Sri Lanka place a special emphasis on the reconstruction and development efforts in North.

The report prepared by the Group has called for the effective and expeditious implementation of the report of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), in particular those relating to post-conflict reconciliation.

The Joint Study Group, set up under a joint initiative of the Manipal Global Education (MaGE) of India and the Pathfinder Foundation of Sri Lanka, has presented its recommendations to the governments of India and Sri Lanka. The report of the Group's study has recommended ways to strengthen the multi-faceted relationship between India and Sri Lanka which has potential for significant expansion and rapid improvement.

It has recognized the beneficial impact of a speedy reconciliation process would have on further strengthening bilateral relations and in this regard has emphasized the importance of both governments repositioning themselves in relation to the post LTTE realities in a pragmatic and forward looking manner.

Among other measures, the report of the Joint Study Group has recommended a structured, systematic and continuous dialogue, based on mutual respect and sovereign equality between the governments of the two countries to deal with issues that may arise from time to time and remove any potential irritants.

It also proposes preparing a road-map for enhancing economic relations over the next two decades and recommends intensified interaction in diverse fields, including education, culture, fine arts, sports and media.

The recommendations also call for the establishment of a joint mechanism for the management of fisheries and other marine resources in the Palk Bay.

The Study Group also called on the two governments to pay urgent attention to implementing the recommendations contained in the report.