New Delhi: In an annual exercise amid strained relations, India and Pakistan exchanged lists of nuclear installations, civilian prisoners, and fishermen in each other’s custody. The simultaneous exchange took place in New Delhi and Islamabad on Wednesday.
The exchange of nuclear facility lists falls under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, signed on December 31, 1988, and enforced on January 27, 1991. As stipulated, both countries inform each other of the nuclear facilities covered by the agreement on January 1 each year. This year marks the 34th consecutive exchange, with the first occurring on January 1, 1992.
Similarly, the exchange of prisoner and fisherman lists adheres to the Agreement on Consular Access 2008, requiring both nations to share these details biannually, on January 1 and July 1.
India provided Pakistan with a list of 381 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen currently in Indian custody, believed to be Pakistani. Pakistan, in turn, shared details of 49 civilian prisoners and 217 fishermen, identified as Indian or believed to be Indian.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized its appeal for the early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, fishermen, and missing defense personnel in Pakistan’s custody. Additionally, India urged Pakistan to release 183 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences.
The MEA also requested consular access for 18 civilian prisoners and fishermen in Pakistani custody who have yet to receive it and called for the safety and welfare of all detained individuals until their return to India.
On its part, India reaffirmed its commitment to addressing humanitarian concerns, including the nationality verification of 76 Pakistani detainees in Indian custody whose repatriation is delayed due to pending confirmation from Pakistan.
Since 2014, sustained diplomatic efforts have facilitated the return of 2,639 Indian fishermen and 71 civilian prisoners from Pakistan. This includes 478 fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners repatriated between 2023 and now.
Both nations continue this practice despite their frosty bilateral ties, reflecting an ongoing commitment to adhering to international agreements and addressing humanitarian issues.
