Australia to boost intelligence sharing with Sri Lanka to stop boatpeople

SYDNEY (AFP) - Australia announced on Monday plans to boost intelligence sharing with Sri Lanka to try to halt a wave of boatpeople that has seen thousands arrive illegally on its shores this year.

Foreign Minister Bob Carr, who is in Colombo for a three-day visit, said he would discuss the idea during talks with leaders on how to deal with people-smuggling.

"It's about defeating those who want to get rich by preying on the aspirations of Sri Lankans for a better life," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

More than 16,770 boatpeople have arrived in Australia in 2012, with Sri Lankans making up the biggest group, accounting for more than 6,360.