India and Pakistan have continued their long-standing diplomatic practice of exchanging lists of nuclear installations and facilities, marking the 35th consecutive year of the confidence-building measure between the two neighbouring nations.
The exchange took place under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, which was signed between the two countries in 1988 and came into force in 1991. Under the agreement, both sides share details of their nuclear sites every year on January 1 through diplomatic channels simultaneously in New Delhi and Islamabad.
Officials said the annual exchange remains an important confidence-building mechanism aimed at reducing the risk of conflict and ensuring that nuclear facilities are not targeted during hostilities. Despite ongoing tensions and differences on several bilateral issues, both countries have consistently adhered to this agreement for over three decades.
India handed over its list of nuclear installations to Pakistan through diplomatic channels, while Pakistan shared its corresponding list with India. The exchange is viewed as one of the few stable diplomatic engagements that have continued uninterrupted even during periods of strained relations.
Strategic experts believe the agreement plays a significant role in maintaining a minimum level of trust and communication between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. They note that such mechanisms help prevent misunderstandings and contribute to regional stability in South Asia.
The agreement prohibits either country from undertaking, encouraging, or participating in any action aimed at destroying or damaging nuclear installations in the other country. The annual exchange of lists serves as a reaffirmation of this commitment.
India and Pakistan have a history of complex relations shaped by political disputes, border tensions, and security concerns. However, diplomatic protocols such as the nuclear sites exchange and periodic communication between military officials have remained functional channels for maintaining stability.
Observers say the continuation of the practice demonstrates the importance both nations attach to nuclear responsibility and strategic restraint, regardless of broader political challenges.
The exchange also comes amid continued international focus on nuclear safety and regional peace in South Asia, with global powers often encouraging dialogue and confidence-building measures between the two countries.
