India, Pakistan Exchange Nuclear Facility Lists
India and Pakistan have exchanged lists of their nuclear installations and facilities as part of a long standing bilateral confidence building measure. The exchange took place simultaneously in New Delhi and Islamabad on January 1, with both sides sharing the information through diplomatic channels. The practice is carried out every year on the first day of the calendar year.
Pact aimed at preventing attacks on nuclear sites
The exchange is conducted under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, which was signed by the two countries in December 1988 and came into force in January 1991. Under the agreement, both sides are required to inform each other of nuclear installations and facilities covered by the pact, with the aim of ensuring that these sites are not targeted during any conflict.
Continuation despite strained relations
The annual exchange has continued consistently despite periods of strained diplomatic and military relations between India and Pakistan. The first such exchange took place in 1992, and the mechanism has been maintained through times of heightened tension, reflecting its role in reducing the risk of escalation between the two nuclear armed neighbours.
Broader confidence building measures
The nuclear facility list exchange is one of several confidence building steps maintained between India and Pakistan. Other regular exchanges include lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each other’s custody. While broader relations remain difficult, these measures help keep limited channels of communication open and reduce misunderstandings on sensitive security issues.
