Pakistan releases 72 Indian fishermen

In a goodwill gesture amid moves to bring both nations closer once again, Pakistan released 72 Indian fishermen on Sunday. The fishermen were held in Pakistan's captivity after they erroneously strayed into Pakistani waters while fishing in the Arabian Sea, confirmed the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) through a written statement. The fishermen were held by Pakistani Marines off the Jakhau coast near India's western state of Gujarat recently. A total of 85 Indian fishermen were arrested by Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA). The ICG statement said: "ICG established contact with the Pakistani ship, and after persistent conferencing and 72 out of the 85 fishermen and one boat were released." It added: "The Indian fishing trawlers had strayed inside the Pakistani waters." Incidents of Indian fishermen straying into Pakistani territorial waters and then arrested by PMSA are a common incident. According to official figures, more than 450 fishermen from Indian state Gujarat are still languishing in different Pakistani jails. Once again, after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, both countries are engaged in diplomatic efforts to build mutual confidence and trust. Recently, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari visited New Delhi and held luncheon meeting with Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. He also invited Singh to visit Islamabad. Dates of Singh's visit are yet to be finalized. Next month the Home Secretaries of both the nations are scheduled to meet in Islamabad. Efforts are also being made to open up bilateral trade for mutual benefits.