New Delhi: Former Jammu & Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti apprciated Pakistan PM Imran Khan for releasing captured IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by saying that he acted like a statesman.

Former J&K Pm further expressed hope that the Indian leadership will also reciprocate this peace gesture. She took to Twitter and wrote, “Good news, whole nation will be relieved. I hope our leadership will also reciprocate this peace gesture. I hope Imran Khan will stand by his word and take steps on Indian dossier on Pulwama attack.”

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She also said that the decision to hand over Wing Commander Abhinandan shouldn’t be seen in isolation. She also said that his release comes at a time when Pakistan could’ve chosen to further escalate an already tensed situation. She further Tweeted “I see it as a mark of reconciliation. Our leadership should reciprocate,”

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman is to receive by IAF at Wagah border today

Wing Commander has been in Pakistan's captivity since Wednesday after his MiG 21 was shot and he bailed out during a IAF dogfight to repel an attack by Pakistan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced the release of Abhinandan by calling it a peace gesture. The IAF, however, claimed that the move was 'no goodwill gesture, but in consonance with the Geneva Conventions'.