Pakistan & India Exchange Annual Nuclear Lists in Confidence-Building Move

Islamabad: In a significant step towards fostering peace and confidence in the region, Pakistan and India have successfully exchanged their annual lists of nuclear installations and facilities. This exchange, held today, is a routine practice under the 1988 Agreement on Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, which aims to reduce the risk of accidental or intentional attacks on these sensitive sites.

The exchange took place in accordance with the terms of the bilateral agreement signed on 31st December 1988. The Agreement mandates both nations to share their lists of nuclear facilities on the 1st of January each year, ensuring transparency and trust. Today, Pakistan’s list was officially handed over to a representative of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Simultaneously, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs provided the list of India’s nuclear installations to a representative of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

Since the agreement entered into force on 27th January 1991, Pakistan and India have maintained this practice uninterrupted, starting with the first exchange on 1st January 1992. This yearly exchange is seen as a vital confidence-building measure between the two neighboring countries, contributing to regional stability by minimizing the chances of misunderstanding or escalation over nuclear-related matters.

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Both sides have emphasized the importance of these exchanges as a means to uphold mutual trust and strengthen peace in a region that has seen its share of tensions. Today’s exchange marks another step in the ongoing efforts by both countries to manage their nuclear arsenals responsibly and reduce the risk of conflict.

This development is a reminder of the ongoing commitment to diplomatic channels and the recognition of the shared responsibility both Pakistan and India hold in promoting security and peace in South Asia.