Pakistan: Indus Waters Treaty as a Tool to Enhance Regional Peace and Stability

Islamabad, June 30 (KUNA) -- Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar affirmed today that the Indus Waters Treaty between Pakistan and India is not merely an agreement for water sharing, but a vital instrument for enhancing peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

Speaking at an international symposium on the Indus Waters Treaty in the capital, Islamabad, Dar stated that shared waters should remain a bridge for cooperation between nations, grounded in dialogue and respect for international law, serving the interests of current and future generations.

He noted that Pakistan and India signed the treaty in 1960 under the auspices of the World Bank, which allocated three eastern rivers to India and three western rivers to Pakistan. He pointed out that the agreement has endured for more than six decades, despite periods of war and political tensions, making it one of the most successful models of transboundary water management.

Dar added that the treaty is currently facing its most serious challenges following India’s unilateral decision to suspend its implementation, describing the move as lacking any basis in the treaty’s provisions or in international law. He stressed that Pakistan “rejects India’s unilateral and illegal declaration,” affirming that the treaty remains in force, binding, and effective, and that no party has the right to unilaterally suspend or terminate its obligations in the absence of any provision permitting such action.

Dar emphasized the necessity of strengthening peace in South Asia by addressing all outstanding issues, noting that Pakistan has consistently sought to resolve disputes through dialogue, diplomacy, and the mechanisms stipulated in the treaty. He warned that any attempt to deprive Pakistan of its entitled water share under the treaty would have serious repercussions for regional peace and security, reiterating that his country would defend its rights and interests in accordance with international law and through all available means.

For his part, Pakistan’s Minister of Information Attaullah Tarar, speaking at the symposium, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to protecting the Indus Waters Treaty by all means, describing the river as the “lifeline” of Pakistan. He added that it is everyone’s duty to ensure that the waters of the Indus remain a symbol of peace and shared prosperity for future generations, stressing his country’s resolve to protect the rights of approximately 240 million Pakistanis, whose lives and livelihoods are tied to the Indus River.

The symposium saw the participation of numerous senior officials, diplomats, ambassadors, ministers, and political figures from within Pakistan and abroad. (End) S.B.K / M.A.H.A