Pakistan recently hosted an ‘international summit’ on the Indus Waters Treaty in Islamabad, aiming to garner global support and exert pressure on India. Despite the event’s international promotion, only a few notable foreign participants, including experts from the US and China, attended. Key figures like Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and former Foreign Ministers addressed the summit, emphasizing Pakistan’s stance on the treaty.
The summit saw statements from Pakistani officials highlighting the strategic importance of the Indus water, with warnings of potential nuclear implications if treaty issues persist. However, concerns were raised about the lack of detailed examination of the treaty’s implications and the impact of India’s actions. India had previously suspended the treaty following a terror attack, asserting its rights under international law until Pakistan addresses cross-border terrorism.
India’s rejection of Pakistan’s criticism of river projects and its stance on the Indus Waters Treaty remained firm, citing the need for Pakistan to cease supporting cross-border terrorism. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated India’s position on the treaty, emphasizing that India is no longer bound by its obligations under the treaty while it remains in abeyance. The ongoing dispute underscores the complex dynamics surrounding water resources and security in the region.
