From correspondents in Islamabad, Pakistan, 04:31 PM IST

Pakistan released 34 Indian fishermen, detained for crossing into its waters, as a goodwill gesture on its Independence Day Thursday.

The fishermen, between 18 years and 34 years of age, were freed from the Karachi Central Jail, Geo TV reported.

The prisoners will be handed over to Indian officials Friday at the eastern Wagah land border between India and Pakistan.

Pakistan and India have exchanged their prisoners in recent years as part of goodwill gesture.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)