India and Pakistan on Jan 1, 2026, swapped detailed lists of nuclear installations and facilities, honoring an annual commitment under their 1988 non-aggression pact. Despite tensions from a 2025 border flare-up, both sides followed through by exchanging documents simultaneously in New Delhi and Islamabad.
This exchange is a key requirement of the pact signed in December 1988 and in force since Jan 27, 1991. By sharing these lists, New Delhi and Islamabad ensure transparency and avoid accidental strikes on each other's nuclear sites — a critical confidence-building measure in the volatile South Asia region.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What happened: Simultaneous list swap on Jan 1, 2026, via diplomatic channels.
- Who said it: India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi confirmed the move.
- Why it matters: Prevents attacks on nuclear facilities and reduces risk of miscalculation.
- Background: The pact prohibits strikes on nuclear installations and promotes stability.
Looking ahead, experts say that even simple steps like this annual exchange help keep lines of communication open 🔗. In a region where flashpoints can escalate quickly, small rituals of trust can make a big difference.
Stay tuned for more updates on South Asia’s shifting dynamics! 🌏
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
