Islamabad (TDI): Islamabad on Thursday warned that any deliberate attempt by India to block or significantly reduce water flows essential to Pakistan’s survival would have “far-reaching consequences”, cautioning that such a move could be viewed as a violation of international obligations and a threat to regional peace.
Speaking at the weekly Foreign Office briefing, spokesperson Tahir Andrabi was responding to recent remarks by Indian Water Minister CR Patil, who claimed that India was working to ensure that “not a single drop of water” reaches Pakistan in the coming years.
Andrabi said any effort to restrict water vital for the livelihoods, agriculture and wellbeing of more than 250 million Pakistanis would be a deeply irresponsible act and a breach of established international norms governing transboundary rivers, as well as India’s commitments under the Indus Waters Treaty.
He stressed that Pakistan firmly rejects the use of water as a political tool, instrument of coercion or weapon, warning that such actions could further destabilize South Asia and place responsibility for any resulting tensions squarely on India.
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The spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan’s rights over its water resources were non-negotiable and said Islamabad would utilize all available diplomatic, political, legal and economic avenues to safeguard its interests in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.
Responding to a question regarding a recent Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report, Andrabi said Pakistan was not surprised by findings indicating an expansion of India’s nuclear arsenal.
He noted that Islamabad has consistently raised concerns over India’s continued vertical proliferation and strategic modernization, including developments in missile systems, sea-based nuclear capabilities and longer-range ballistic missile programs.
The spokesperson said that such developments could undermine strategic stability in South Asia and have implications beyond the region, prompting Pakistan to urge the international community to closely monitor the evolving security environment.
He also said securing the release of 11 Pakistani sailors held hostage by pirates off the coast of Somalia remains a top priority, although the situation remains operationally challenging.
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The crew members were taken captive after armed pirates hijacked the vessel MT Honour 25 near Somalia’s southeastern coast in April. Andrabi said Pakistan was maintaining close contact with Somali authorities and the ship owner to facilitate their safe release and repatriation.
He added that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had personally raised the matter with Somalia’s foreign minister, while Pakistan’s diplomatic missions and relevant government departments continue to coordinate efforts to resolve the crisis.
Despite the challenges posed by the complex local dynamics in the region where the hostages are being held, the spokesperson expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic engagement would help secure their freedom at the earliest opportunity.
