Italy's foreign minister says two marines being held in India since February for the deaths of two fishermen exhibited "great personal credibility" by returning to India after being allowed home for the Christmas holiday.
Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi made the point in a call with his Indian counterpart today, expressing hope for a "rapid and positive conclusion" to the case, according to his ministry.
Indian authorities authorised a two-week leave for the sailors, who were providing security on a cargo ship when they allegedly shot the fishermen, mistaking them for pirates.
Italy maintains the shooting occurred in international waters and that Rome should have jurisdiction. India claims the ship was in Indian territorial waters. The Indian Supreme Court will decide on Italy's petition.
