Pakistan draws red line on Indus Waters Treaty

Pakistan has reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be suspended or revoked by one party alone and has announced plans to present the legal

Pakistan has reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be suspended or revoked by one party alone and has announced plans to present the legal, technical and environmental dimensions of the agreement before international experts during a major seminar in Islamabad.

Government officials described water security as a matter of national importance and stressed that Pakistan would continue to defend its rights under the decades-old water-sharing arrangement.

Speaking ahead of the conference, officials said the treaty contains a comprehensive dispute-resolution mechanism and does not allow unilateral termination by either country.

The seminar, scheduled to take place in Islamabad, will bring together legal specialists, water experts, environmental researchers and policy analysts from Pakistan and abroad to discuss the future of the treaty and regional water cooperation.

Authorities said the objective of the event is to highlight Pakistan’s legal position and increase international awareness regarding the country’s rights and obligations under the agreement.

The Indus Waters Treaty has governed the sharing of river waters between the two neighbouring countries since 1960 and has survived several periods of political tension and military conflict.

Pakistan maintains that the agreement remains legally binding and that any disputes arising under the treaty must be resolved through the mechanisms already provided within the framework of the accord.

Officials also underlined the importance of water resources for agriculture, food production, energy generation and economic stability, describing water security as a strategic national interest.

The government warned that any attempt to undermine the treaty could have serious consequences for regional stability and cooperation.

Climate experts participating in the discussions are expected to examine the growing impact of climate change, glacier melting and shifting rainfall patterns on water availability across South Asia.

Pakistan has also raised concerns regarding the issue at several international forums and continues diplomatic efforts to ensure that international agreements are respected and implemented in accordance with international law.

Government representatives said Pakistan would continue pursuing legal, diplomatic and technical channels to safeguard its water interests while remaining committed to peaceful dialogue and regional cooperation.

Officials expressed confidence that international legal experts and water specialists would recognise the significance of preserving established treaty mechanisms for the benefit of both countries and regional stability.