PAKISTAN AND INDIA have exchanged updated lists of prisoners under the 2008 Consular Access Agreement. The exchange is part of a regular process followed by both countries every year.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the lists were shared through the respective High Commissions in Islamabad and New Delhi. The exchange took place in line with the bilateral agreement signed in 2008.
The agreement requires PAKISTAN AND INDIA to exchange prisoner lists twice each year. The lists are officially shared on January 1 and July 1. This mechanism helps both countries keep updated records of their nationals held in each other’s prisons.
The Foreign Office said Pakistan provided India with a list containing 250 Indian prisoners currently held in Pakistani prisons. The list includes 52 Indian nationals and 198 Indian fishermen.
In return, India shared a list of 439 Pakistani or alleged Pakistani prisoners in its custody. According to the information provided, the list includes 386 Pakistani nationals and 53 Pakistani fishermen.
Pakistan also called for the immediate release and repatriation of 97 Pakistani prisoners who have completed their sentences. These include 64 Pakistani nationals and 33 fishermen. The government said these individuals should be allowed to return home without unnecessary delay.
The Foreign Office further urged India to ensure the safety, security, and humane treatment of all Pakistani prisoners. It also requested immediate consular access for individuals believed to be Pakistani nationals.
According to the spokesperson, consular access should not be delayed because of identity verification procedures. Pakistan emphasized that timely access is important for protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens held abroad.
PAKISTAN AND INDIA continue to maintain this prisoner exchange mechanism despite broader diplomatic challenges. The process allows both sides to update official records and discuss matters related to prisoners through established diplomatic channels.
The 2008 Consular Access Agreement remains an important framework for communication between the two countries regarding detained nationals. It supports regular information sharing and provides a structured process for handling consular matters.
The latest exchange follows the agreed schedule without any changes to the established procedure. Officials from both countries completed the exchange through their diplomatic missions as required under the agreement.
Pakistan reaffirmed that it will continue diplomatic efforts to secure the early release and return of its citizens who have completed their legal sentences. The government also said it remains committed to protecting the rights of Pakistani nationals held in foreign custody.
In other related news also read Pakistan Buys Emergency LNG at Premium Price
The regular exchange of prisoner lists remains one of the few ongoing bilateral mechanisms between PAKISTAN AND INDIA. It continues to serve as an important channel for consular communication and humanitarian cooperation.
