India, Pakistan Exchange List Of Nuclear Facilities; Know Why

New Delhi: India and Pakistan have exchanged a list of their nuclear installations which can’t be attacked in the eventuality of an escalation in hostilities, reported India Today.

The Indian government has also urged Pakistan to expedite release from prison of 631 fishermen and 2 civilian prisoners who have completed their jail terms as well as repatriate those whose nationality has been confirmed.

India also asked Pakistan to provide consular access to remaining 30 fishermen and 22 civilian prisoners in the neighbouring country’s custody.

The exchange of nuclear installations and facilities are a part of an annual ritual, as per provisions of an agreement on prohibition of attacks against nuclear installations.

The agreement, which was signed on December 31, 1988, came into force on January 27, 1991.

“The list of nuclear installations and facilities in Pakistan was officially handed over to a representative of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday,” Pakistan’s Foreign Office said.

The Ministry of External Affairs simultaneously handed over India’s list of nuclear installations to a representative of Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

Both countries have been following the practice of exchange of civilian prisoners on January 1 and July 1 of every calendar year, under the framework of a 2008 pact.