Political disputes must not affect Indus Water Treaty, experts warn

Washington policy experts have warned that political disputes should not undermine Pakistan's adherence to the Indus Water Treaty. During a discussion hosted by the Pakistan Embassy, experts called for continued implementation of the agreement despite tensions, asserting that water-sharing rules should remain separate from political and security issues.

Munir Akram, a former Pakistan UN ambassador, emphasized Pakistan's legal obligation to respect the treaty. Rizwan Saeed, Pakistan's ambassador to the US, stressed Islamabad's preference for dialogue and peaceful coexistence with India. The experts stressed the need for a diplomatic strategy and potential UN involvement to preserve the treaty's legal framework.

Pakistan's ambassador highlighted Pakistan's efforts to mediate other regional disputes, urging India to remain engaged. Pakistan's Ambassador Adil Najam stressed that the treaty defined South Asian water cooperation and noted the importance of addressing climate change impacts. Experts warned against weaponizing water and emphasized restoring transparency and technical cooperation under the treaty.

Senator Sherry Rehman warned India against unilaterally suspending the treaty, stating that any change must follow international law procedures. She emphasized Pakistan's right to seek legal recourse if its water rights were undermined.