Pakistan Ready to Counter Water Diversion: Tarar

Addressing the international conference titled “Indus Waters Treaty as an Enduring Legal and Institutional Framework” at the Convention Centre in Islamabad, Tarar said Pakistan remained committed to constructive dialogue and the faithful implementation of the treaty. However, he warned that the country would respond decisively to any attempt to stop the flow of its water.

The minister said any amendment to the treaty could only be made through mutual consent between Pakistan and India, adding that Pakistan had repeatedly asserted its rights over the Indus River system, which serves as the backbone of the country’s agriculture and economy.

Describing the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty as a landmark agreement in international relations, Tarar said it had endured wars, political tensions and regional challenges for more than six decades because it was founded on cooperation, dialogue and respect for international commitments.

He called the treaty an important example of a rules-based international order, saying it reflected the principles of good faith, peaceful dispute resolution and the sanctity of international agreements.

Referring to recent tensions over the treaty, Tarar said Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership had made it clear that the agreement could not be altered or suspended by one party alone. He argued that any unilateral attempt to do so lacked legal, moral and international legitimacy.

The minister also highlighted the growing challenges posed by climate change, glacier melting and increasing water scarcity, urging regional cooperation to address shared water resources rather than turning them into a source of conflict.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful engagement but warned that any effort to block the country’s water would be met with an effective response to safeguard the rights of the Pakistani people.