Pakistan to safeguard Indus water rights, says Tarar

ISLAMABAD – Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Tuesday expressed Pakistan’s resolve to protect the sanctity of the Indus Waters Treaty by all means. Addressing the opening session of the seminar on the Indus Waters Treaty in Islamabad, Attaullah Tarar said the Indus is our lifeline and vowed to protect the inalienable right of 240 million people of Pakistan to the waters of the Indus River System. The Information Minister said it is our collective responsibility to ensure that these waters remain a symbol of peace and shared prosperity for generations to come. He said Pakistan stands firm in its determination to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people who are linked to the Indus River. Attaullah Tarar said the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be amended, revoked, suspended or held in abeyance unilaterally. He mentioned that this pact came into being after mutual consensus and only mutual consensus can lead to any amendment. Attaullah Tarar said India’s failed attempt to unilaterally hold this treaty in abeyance has led to international embarrassment for India at various forums, including legal ones. Highlighting the challenge posed by climate change and water scarcity, the Information Minister emphasized that protecting the Indus Waters Treaty is of the utmost essence. He said any attempt to block or stop water will always fail. He noted that the weaponization of water or attempts to unilaterally alter established arrangements undermine not only regional peace and stability but also the broader framework of international law. He said Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue as well as the faithful implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty. He warned if any attempt is made to stop the water of Pakistan, our leadership stands resolved to respond effectively to restore the water for the people of Pakistan. Pakistan to not give up its share of water under IWT: