India and Pakistan exchanged details of their nuclear installations as part of a 30-year bilateral agreement designed to avoid attacks on each other’s atomic facilities. This annual exchange, which has been ongoing since 1992, is a crucial aspect of maintaining peace and security between the two nations, despite their strained relations.

As part of the agreement, both countries also shared lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen currently in their custody. India provided details of 381 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen believed to be Pakistani nationals, while Pakistan shared information about 49 Indian civilian prisoners and 217 Indian fishermen.

The exchanges, conducted through diplomatic channels, occurred amid ongoing tensions over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized the urgency for Pakistan to release 183 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences. Additionally, India requested consular access for 18 prisoners believed to be Indian and still held in Pakistani custody.

Since the 1988 bilateral agreement, the two nations have been committed to notifying each other about their nuclear facilities every January 1. This pact has remained intact for over three decades, even in times of diplomatic challenges, ensuring transparency and reducing the risk of accidental conflict.

The exchanges underline the importance of maintaining communication and diplomatic relations, even during difficult times.