ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan entered India through Wagah Border on Friday after Pakistani Officials handed him over to Indian authorities, a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan announced to release him as a peace gesture, reports DND News Agency through Lahore correspondent.
The Indian Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan was received by a team of IAF at the Wagah-Attari border.
Earlier he was transported to Wagah Border amid tight security, wherein he underwent a medical checkup.
Meanwhile, in a video statement released today, the Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan admitted that his Mig-21 was hit by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) as he was searching for a target, and he ejected from his jet.
Abhinandan also once again lauded Pakistan army professionalism. He said that he tried to flee the scene after the landed through his parachute but in the meantime, he was caught by infuriated people but two Pakistan Officers rescued him.
“The Pakistan Army is a very professional service…I see peace in it. I have spent time with the Pakistani Army, I am very impressed,” he said.
The Indian pilot also criticized the Indian media for instigating the people and exaggerating the facts.
Wing Commander Abhinandan was arrested on Wednesday when his aircraft Mid-21 was shot down by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) after violation of Pakistan air-space.
“In our desire of peace, I announce that tomorrow, and as a first step to open negotiations, Pakistan will be releasing the Indian Air Force officer (Wing Commander Abhinandan) in our custody,” Imran Khan said while addressing the Joint Session of the Parliament in Islamabad yesterday.
Meanwhile, the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) has welcomed Pakistan’s initiative to free the captured Indian pilot, and said that his release by Pakistan is a good omen.
China also welcomed Pakistan’s decision to “express kindness” and hand over the captured Indian pilot.
“The alleviation of tensions between the two countries serves their fundamental interests,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular news briefing on Friday.
