New Delhi, Feb 28 (IANS): Regretting the deaths of two Indian fishermen along the Kerala coast, Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant' Agata Tuesday admitted that there was a difference of opinion with India on the issue but stressed that the two countries would pursue it in the spirit of friendship.

"I expressed the condolences of Italy and the Italian people at the unfortunate tragic loss of life of two Indian fishermen," Terzi told reporters at a joint press conference with External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna.

"There is a difference of opinion which is not resolved. Nevertheless, we will continue to pursue this issue in the spirit of friendship and cooperation," Terzi said.

The Italian foreign minister reiterated Italy's position that the incident occurred in international waters. India has, however, made it clear that Indian law will take its own course.

The diplomatic standoff between India and Italy has been brewing since Feb 15 when two Italian marines, Latorre Massimillano and Salvatore Girone on board the vessel Enrica Lexie, shot dead two Indian fishermen, Ajesh Binky and Gelastine, just off the Kerala coast assuming them to be pirates.

Terzi is in India on a two-day visit beginning Tuesday. He had met Krishna ahead of the media interaction.