Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Wednesday participated in a "ceremony" for the 15 British sailors' release, Iran's state television reported.

The television's footage showed Ahmadinejad was shaking hands with the British naval personnel and talking to them.

Ahmadinejad announced earlier in a press conference that Iran had decided to free the 15 British naval personnel.

"While we insist on our rights, the 15 sailors have been pardoned and we offer their freedom to the British people," Ahmadinejad told a news conference in Tehran, broadcast live on Iranian television.

"After the press conference, they will be sent to the airport to take a flight to their own country," he added.

Source: Xinhua