India and Pakistan Exchange Nuclear Installation Lists Under 30-Year Pact
In a continued effort to uphold regional stability, India and Pakistan have exchanged lists of their respective nuclear installations and facilities. This exchange, conducted on January 1, 2025, marks the 34th consecutive year of this practice, which began in 1992.
Background of the Agreement
The exchange is carried out under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, a bilateral accord signed on December 31, 1988, and effective from January 27, 1991. The agreement mandates that both countries inform each other of their nuclear installations and facilities on the first day of every calendar year, serving as a confidence-building measure to prevent potential attacks on such sites.
Significance of the Exchange
This annual exchange is viewed as a significant step towards fostering trust and transparency between the two nations, which have a history of complex relations. By regularly sharing information about nuclear facilities, both countries aim to reduce the risk of misunderstandings or miscalculations that could lead to conflict.
Continued Commitment to Peace
Despite ongoing challenges in their bilateral relationship, the uninterrupted continuation of this practice reflects a mutual commitment to maintaining channels of communication and promoting regional security. The consistent exchange underscores the importance both nations place on adhering to agreements that contribute to peace and stability in the region.
