ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has strongly condemned India’s proposed plans to divert water from the Chenab River, including its diversion toward the Beas River, asserting that such action breaches international treaties and norms governing transboundary water resources.
During the weekly media briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized that India’s unilateral steps cannot alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that these actions are inconsistent with established international standards and conventions.
Andrabi pointed out that Pakistan has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts over the past fortnight, with numerous international contacts focusing on regional stability and Middle Eastern peace initiatives. He also noted that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in mediating regional conflicts, with US leadership expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s contributions to regional peace.
The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to playing a genuine and constructive role in fostering regional stability through dialogue and diplomacy. He expressed hope for a peaceful resolution between Iran and the United States and stated that Pakistan is prepared to host negotiations if needed.
Additionally, Andrabi condemned ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, condemning what Pakistan describes as continued aggression against the Palestinian people.
Regarding India’s plans to transfer water from the Chenab to the Beas River, Andrabi stated that Pakistan has categorically maintained that it will take all necessary measures to protect its rights under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). He described India’s proposed inter-basin water diversion as a serious violation not only of the IWT but also of international law, including the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties and principles outlined in the 1997 UN Convention on Watercourses.
He also expressed concern over India’s alleged plans to carry out silt flushing at the Salal Dam reservoir in Reasi district, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Andrabi warned that such actions could enhance water control beyond what is permitted under existing treaties and agreements.
The spokesperson criticized India for not providing formal notifications or seeking consultations regarding these projects, accusing New Delhi of attempting to weaponize water resources, which poses serious risks to Pakistan’s economy, regional stability, and international peace.
While emphasizing Pakistan’s restraint and responsibility, Andrabi clarified that any illegal measures threatening Pakistan’s water, food, and economic security, as well as the wellbeing of 250 million Pakistanis, are unacceptable. He warned that such actions could further destabilize South Asia, with potentially grave consequences for the entire region.
The international community was urged to press India to cease water coercion, abandon illegal diversion projects, and ensure full implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Responding to questions about the Swiss Ambassador’s visit to Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Andrabi reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized dispute, and visits by foreign officials do not change its status. He emphasized that resolution can only be achieved through an impartial and independent plebiscite.
On the Middle East, Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s consistent stance supporting the establishment of a viable Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital.
Finally, he acknowledged recent statements from former US President Donald Trump regarding Iran, describing the spirit of optimism as positive. Pakistan remains willing to host US-Iran talks again and hopes for an expedited resolution to the ongoing negotiations.
