India, Pakistan swap inmates list
Date
7/16/2024 8:56:48 AM
(MENAFN) On Monday, India and Pakistan engaged in a formal exchange of lists detailing the civilian prisoners and fishermen detained by each country, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry. This regular exchange underscores the ongoing dialogue between the two nations, despite their historical tensions.
India provided a list that included the names of 366 Pakistani civilian prisoners and 86 fishermen currently in its custody. In reciprocation, Pakistan identified 43 civilian prisoners and 211 fishermen it holds, who are either confirmed or believed to be Indian nationals. This exchange is part of a bilateral agreement established in 2008, which mandates that such lists be shared twice annually, on January 1 and July 1.
New Delhi also took the opportunity to urge Pakistan for the swift release and repatriation of its civilian prisoners and fishermen, along with their boats. Furthermore, India called for the expedited release of 185 fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences.
The two neighboring countries frequently detain each other's fishermen for allegedly operating in their respective territorial waters, which has been a persistent issue. Since 2014, India has successfully repatriated 2,639 fishermen and 71 civilians from Pakistan, attributing this achievement to its ongoing diplomatic efforts. In the previous year alone, 478 Indian fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners were released by Pakistan.
In a statement following the exchange, Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the timely return of all Pakistani prisoners held in Indian jails. Last year, 62 individuals were repatriated, with an additional four this year. The statement also mentioned that India provided a list of 38 missing Pakistani defense personnel believed to be in Indian custody, stemming from the conflicts of 1965 and 1971.
The exchange of prisoner lists illustrates a step toward maintaining communication and addressing humanitarian concerns, even amid the complex and often fraught relationship between India and Pakistan.
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