India, Pakistan hold talks on mechanism for release of fisherfolk

New Delhi, July 12 (ANI): The India-Pakistan Joint Working Group Meeting for working out a mechanism for release of fishermen and their boats who cross maritime borders inadvertently was held here today.

The Indian delegation was led by Vice Admiral M.P. Muralidharan, Director-General of the Indian Coast Guard, while the Pakistan delegation was led by Rear Admiral Waseem Akram, Director-General, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA).

The meeting was held in pursuance of the decision taken during the India-Pakistan Home/Interior Secretary Level Talks held on March 28 and 29,2011, where both sides agreed to task the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and PMSA to work on setting up a mechanism for release of fishermen and their boats who cross maritime borders inadvertently.

The group held preliminary discussions on the issue and recognised the need for addressing the humanitarian aspect of inadvertent crossing of maritime borders by legitimate fishermen.

A press release said the discussions were fruitful in mutual exchange of ideas and deliberating way ahead in evolving a suitable mechanism for release of such fishermen and their boats.

It was also acknowledged that focused approach and sustained efforts of the group needs to be continued. (ANI)