India, Pakistan exchange lists of civilian prisoners, fishermen

NEW DELHI, July 1 - India and Pakistan on Sunday exchanged, through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad, the lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen of each country lodged in the jails, said an official statement issued by India's external affairs ministry.

The lists were exchanged in keeping with the provisions of the 2008 Agreement under which such lists are exchanged on January 1 and July 1 every year.

The lists of 249 civilian prisoners and 108 fishermen were handed over to Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistan shared the lists of 53 civilian prisoners and 418 fishermen in its custody, who are Indians or believed to be Indians, said the statement.

While exchanging the lists, the Indian government emphasised on the need for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel and fishermen along with their boats.

In this context, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release of 9 Indian civilian prisoners and 229 Indian fishermen who have completed their sentences and whose nationality have been confirmed.

Immediate consular access has also been sought for the remaining prisoners and fishermen to facilitate their early release and repatriation, added the statement.