ISLAMABAD, May 20: The government announced on Tuesday it would release 96 Indian fishermen as a gesture of goodwill.

The announcement made by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Interior Rehman Malik coincided with Indian Foreign Minister Parnab Mukharjee’s visit.

The national status of the fishermen being released has been confirmed by the Indian authorities.

They were arrested by the Maritime Security Agency for violating the country’s exclusive economic zone and fishing in Pakistani waters.

The adviser also announced the release of three other civilians whose nationality has been confirmed by the Indian government.

Recently, India released 14 Pakistani fishermen as a goodwill gesture.