ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - Pakistan has welcomed the award rendered by the Court of Arbitration on the issues of general interpretation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
According to Foreign Office, the award was announced on Friday and the court published it today (Monday) on its website.
The award interprets the designed criteria for the new run-of-river hydropower projects, to be constructed by India on the western rivers namely Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus.
In a significant finding, the court declared that India shall "let flow" the waters of the western rivers for Pakistan's unrestricted use.
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The court's findings on low-level outlets, gated spillways, intakes for the turbines, and free-board are in line with Pakistan's interpretation of the relevant provisions of the treaty.
Notably, the court has observed that the awards of a Court of Arbitration are final and binding on the parties (India and Pakistan).
The award carries special significance in the wake of India's recent announcement to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, and its earlier decision to boycott the proceedings of the Court of Arbitration. It is an endorsement of Pakistan's historical stance on the afore-stated issues.
“Pakistan remains committed to full implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty. It also expects India to immediately resume the normal functioning of the treaty, and faithfully implement the award announced by the Court of Arbitration,” the Foreign Office said.