UK Urges India to Honor the Indus Waters Treaty
ISLAMABAD: Ms. Zoe Ware, Political Consular, British High Commission meets the Honorable Federal Minister for Water Resources, at the Ministry of Water Resources. The meeting featured an in-depth discussion on the Indus Waters Treaty, during which both sides exchanged views on the current challenges and regional implications surrounding the agreement. The conversation underscored Pakistan’s firm stance on regional water cooperation and explored avenues of bilateral engagement on water governance.
During the discussion, Federal Minister emphasized the fundamental importance of water as a core human necessity and a vital resource for national development. He expressed deep concern over India’s unilateral actions with regard to the Indus Waters Treaty, terming them “condemnable” and a violation of a long-standing, internationally recognized agreement.
“The Indus Waters Treaty is not just a bilateral understanding; it is a comprehensive and meticulously detailed document that outlines a robust mechanism for addressing disputes,” the Minister stated. “India cannot unilaterally revoke or bypass the agreement. We believe in peace, and we are committed to resolving this issue through dialogue, as envisaged in the treaty itself.”
He further underscored Pakistan’s adherence to the treaty’s legal frameworks, noting that despite provocations, Pakistan has utilized only lawful and diplomatic channels to seek resolution. “We remain open to dialogue—even on a neutral venue—because we believe peaceful engagement is the only path forward.”
Ms. Zoe Ware appreciated Pakistan’s principled and lawful approach to the matter, recognizing the country’s commitment to international agreements and peaceful dispute resolution. She expressed hope that both countries would continue to honor the Indus Waters Treaty and engage in meaningful dialogue. “The United Kingdom is hopeful that India will also pursue a peaceful resolution,” she noted. “We commend Pakistan’s constructive approach and assure that the UK will play a positive role wherever it can.”
The meeting also featured a briefing by the Consular to the Federal Minister on the Water Resource Accountability Program (WRAP)—a UK government initiative led by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), aimed at enhancing water governance and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) reforms in Pakistan. Ms. Ware highlighted the central role WRAP plays in supporting transparency and sustainability in Pakistan’s water management systems.
Federal Minister expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation under WRAP, reaffirming Pakistan’s full commitment to realizing the program’s potential through structured, transparent, and high-impact engagements. “Our goal is to broaden this partnership for the benefit of our people and our environment,” he said.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to continued cooperation on water governance and regional peace. Ms. Zoe Ware appreciated Pakistan’s consistent and sincere efforts in advocating for peaceful dialogue and upholding international obligations, particularly in the face of unilateral actions. She acknowledged that Pakistan has demonstrated maturity and responsibility by seeking legal and diplomatic channels to address the issue. Both parties agreed that dialogue remains the only viable path forward, and emphasized the importance of sustained international engagement to support peace and stability in the region.
