NEW DELHI: Pakistan on Monday released 30 Indian fishermen and prisoners and called it a humanitarian gesture meant to mark its Independence Day on August 14. India responded by releasing seven Pakistani prisoners.

“This is a humanitarian gesture to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day on August 14. This is in line with Pakistan’s consistent policy of not politicising humanitarian issues. It is our hope that the Indian side will also reciprocate in a similar manner,” Pakistan said. India said seven Pakistani civilian prisoners were repatriated on Monday. Earlier, 14 Pakistani fishermen were repatriated on August 7.

“India attaches high priority to addressing humanitarian issues including early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen and prisoners in Pakistan’s custody. Release of 178 Indian prisoners, including 174 fishermen, has been secured in 2018 so far,’” the MEA said.

Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location.

