Pakistan to release 57 Indian fishing boats

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: "Following the release of 150 Indian fishermen as a goodwill gesture, last May, the Government of Pakistan has decided to release 57 fishing boats that were in its custody. In this regard, a 9 member Indian delegation visited Karachi from 18-20 July to inspect the boats and discuss modalities for the release with officials of the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA)."

"While every effort is made by the PMSA to keep the boats in good condition, however, some minor repairs are still required before the boats could be physically handed over. In this regard, a follow up visit of Indian officials would take place sometime in August to oversee the repairs before they are returned in mid September," it said.

The Ministry said Indian fishermen and boats are often apprehended by PMSA authorities when they violate Pakistan territorial waters.

"Usually the boats are not in seaworthy condition and are not returned. However, following instructions from the Prime Minister to return these boats, hectic efforts were undertaken by the PMSA to ensure that the boats are returned to their rightful owners," read the statement.

The Ministry said the Pakistani government viewed the issue of prisoners as a humanitarian one and continues to make efforts for their release as soon as their prison sentence has been completed.

"It calls upon the Government of India to adhere to the Consular Agreement of 2008 and recommendations of the Judicial Committee on Prisoners to ensure that all those Pakistani prisoners are released whose sentences have been completed," it said.