Indus Waters Treaty Cannot Be Unilaterally Suspended, President Zardari Says
The President made the remarks while addressing a ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad, where UN Secretary-General António Guterres was conferred with Pakistan’s prestigious civil award, Nishan-e-Imtiaz.
President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday said the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be unilaterally suspended or rendered ineffective, stressing that water must never be used as a weapon or a tool of political pressure.
The President made the remarks while addressing a ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad, where UN Secretary-General António Guterres was conferred with Pakistan’s prestigious civil award, Nishan-e-Imtiaz.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, National Assembly Speaker and other senior officials attended the ceremony.
Guterres thanked Pakistan for conferring the high national honour on him.
During his meeting with the UN Secretary-General, President Zardari also appreciated Guterres’ efforts to promote global peace, dialogue and international cooperation.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Zardari stressed that water should not be weaponised or used as an instrument of political pressure.
He said lasting peace in the region required the resolution of all longstanding disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
The President also reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination.
Turning to the security situation in the region, President Zardari said Pakistan continues to face terrorism from terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.
He stressed that Afghan territory must not be allowed to be used against Pakistan or any other country.
President Zardari said there was no alternative to dialogue for resolving regional disputes, underscoring Pakistan’s support for diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
