ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday warned that sabotaging international river treaties could come at a heavy cost, saying attempts to block river flows set a dangerous precedent in international relations.
Addressing an international seminar on the Indus Waters Treaty in Islamabad, Dar said water is not merely a natural resource but the foundation of human dignity, economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. He said water does not recognise political borders but sustains life.
He said violations of international commitments weaken trust and cooperation among nations and undermine the rules-based international order on which global peace and security depend.
Dar said South Asia already faces numerous challenges, making respect for international agreements and international law essential. He noted that the Indus Waters Treaty was reached after years of negotiations to ensure the fair and effective use of shared water resources.
The deputy prime minister reiterated Pakistan's commitment to peace, dialogue and good neighbourly relations, adding that the country believes in implementing international law, honouring treaties and protecting water rights.
He said Pakistan would not accept any illegal attempt to divert, block or reduce its legitimate share of water and would continue to safeguard its rights through international law and diplomatic channels.
Referring to the National Security Committee meeting held after the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Dar said it had been decided that any attempt to divert, stop or reduce Pakistan's water share would be considered an act of war.
He added that the decision was taken with national consensus and reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to protect its water rights while continuing to promote peace, regional stability and dialogue.