ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his gratitude to the World Bank for its unwavering support of Pakistan’s legitimate stance regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, especially amidst India’s recent unilateral moves that threaten to undermine important international agreements.
During a meeting with Ousmane Dione, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, Shehbaz appreciated the Bank’s principled backing and emphasized Pakistan’s firm commitment to adherence to international law, regional stability, and resolving disputes through dialogue.
India suspended its participation in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty following deadly clashes in April in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which New Delhi attributed to Pakistan—an accusation Islamabad firmly denies.
Highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the World Bank, the Prime Minister also acknowledged the importance of the Country Partnership Framework, which has played a vital role in advancing key sectors such as energy, education, climate adaptation, and governance.
He further expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s swift and substantial aid following the devastating floods of 2022, which facilitated critical relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts across affected regions.
Ousmane Dione reiterated the Bank’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan, praising the country’s recent macroeconomic recovery efforts and the government’s initiatives aimed at fiscal discipline and sustainable development.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to deepen collaboration and pursue shared development objectives, aiming for a brighter and more prosperous future for Pakistan’s citizens.
