Today, India and Pakistan exchanged lists of nuclear facilities and installations through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad. This exchange is conducted under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between the two nations.
Signed on December 31, 1988, and enacted on January 27, 1991, this agreement mandates that India and Pakistan inform each other about nuclear sites covered by the agreement every January 1. This marks the 34th consecutive exchange of such lists between the two countries, with the first occurring on January 1, 1992.
This agreement was a vital confidence-building measure, aimed at ensuring mutual respect for nuclear facilities and preventing the potential deployment of nuclear weapons, thereby maintaining regional stability.
As per the agreement, both nations exchange their nuclear facility lists annually on January 1. These lists are shared through diplomatic channels, and the agreement is strictly adhered to. Since 1991, regardless of the state of bilateral relations, India and Pakistan have consistently exchanged lists each January 1.
This agreement is considered a significant and ongoing positive step despite the strained relations between India and Pakistan. It was signed during a period when efforts to improve bilateral relations were being initiated to some extent.
Signed
31 December 1988
, an essential initiative for regional peace.
Enacted on
27 January 1991
, signaling a new era of cooperation.
