ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that water is not just a matter of geography but a fundamental issue related to food, economy, future and lives of millions of people. Using water as a political pressure or weapon is against international laws, treaties, and principles of world peace.
Addressing an international seminar on the Indus Waters Treaty in Islamabad, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the world has recognized the fact that water resources are becoming a central issue of global politics, security and stability.
He said that just as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz affects the global economy, similarly the interruption of the water of the Indus River directly affects Pakistan’s economy, agriculture and the lives of the people.
He noted that the trend of using sea lanes or water resources as weapons is very dangerous and can pose serious threats not only to the region but also to world peace.
He stressed that the Indus Water Treaty is the foundation of peace and stability in the region, and without its full restoration, lasting peace between Pakistan and India is not possible.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan has fulfilled all its international commitments and obligations, including the ceasefire, but India has not fully fulfilled its obligations.
He demanded that the protection of Pakistan’s share of water under the Indus Water Treaty be ensured at all costs.
The PPP Chairman said that the Indus River is not just a river but a pillar of life, agriculture, economy and civilization of millions of Pakistanis, while Pakistan’s right to the waters of Indus, Jhelum and Chenab is recognized and legally protected under international agreements.
He said that the water issue should not be seen as just a technical or administrative dispute but as a matter of utmost national security. Every attempt to harm Pakistan’s water rights will be responded to effectively at the national level.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan wants peace, dialogue, and cooperation in the region, but will not compromise on the fundamental rights and water interests of its people.
He said that the entire nation is united on the issue of protecting the right to water of millions of Pakistanis, and the international community should also play its role in ensuring respect for international law and agreements in this regard.
