Pakistan president says ‘weaponization’ of water treaty by India will not succeed

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has warned that attempts to “weaponize water” and undermine the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) pose a grave threat to the livelihoods of 240 million Pakistanis, declaring that such actions by India “will not succeed”.

The IWT, signed in 1960 under World Bank mediation, governs the division of the Indus River system between India and Pakistan. Under its terms, Pakistan controls the three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab - while India retains rights over the eastern rivers - Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej - making it one of the most enduring water-sharing frameworks in the world.

Speaking at the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha on Tuesday, Zardari said violations of the decades-old water-sharing pact amounted to a “serious threat to regional peace and stability.” His comments came amid recent tensions after India threatened to block Pakistan’s water supply following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.

In April, New Delhi suspended engagement under the Indus Waters Treaty after a terror attack in Pahalgam left 26 people dead — an attack India swiftly blamed on Pakistan without providing evidence. Islamabad condemned the move as an “act of war,” stressing that the treaty contains no provision for unilateral suspension. Pakistan also said it was exploring legal options, arguing that India’s step violated the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

Zardari used the global platform to call for collective action against the “politicization of essential resources,” saying the world must instead unite around dignity, equality, and solidarity. He urged reforms in global financial systems, equitable taxation, debt relief, and stronger social protection mechanisms to ensure inclusive development.

Addressing broader global challenges, the president denounced “genocide, apartheid, and mass starvation in Palestine,” calling for a just and lasting peace. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Kashmir, describing the struggles of Palestinians and Kashmiris as “two sides of the same coin” in their quest for justice and self-determination.

“Development must begin and end with the betterment of people,” Zardari said. “We must rise above all differences to embark on a path of compassion and progress for all.”

Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to social justice and sustainable growth, the president said the country’s vision aligns with the spirit of the Doha Political Declaration. “Pakistan remains steadfast in placing people at the center of policy,” he emphasized.

Zardari highlighted the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) as a flagship model of social protection, noting that it has supported over nine million families through income assistance, healthcare, and education. The initiative, he said, is “globally recognized as one of the most effective social safety nets.”

The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), pledging to raise literacy rates to 90 percent and ensure universal school enrollment within five years.

He also pointed to youth empowerment and climate resilience initiatives, including the National Youth Internship Program and green housing projects that promote nature-based solutions such as mangrove restoration.