Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz issues a warning to India regarding potential water threats, confirming a robust reaction if the Indus Water Treaty is breached.
In a series of recent statements, key figures in Pakistan's government have addressed various pressing issues, from water security and religious harmony to youth empowerment and national pride.
Minister of State for Religious Affairs Khel Das Kohistani emphasised Pakistan's respect for all religions, a stance echoed in the country's Constitution, which protects the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith. Kohistani also emphasised the prime minister's commitment to moving the country forward in line with the vision of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, announced a 5% quota in jobs for minorities under a policy aimed at promoting interfaith harmony. Yousaf also stated that the government is taking effective measures for the protection of minorities.
The prime minister congratulated the nation on Independence Day and reaffirmed his government's commitment to empowering youth through education and technology. As part of this commitment, the prime minister announced the distribution of 100,000 laptops to students, interest-free and purely on merit.
In a show of support for minority communities, the prime minister praised the role of minorities and all segments of society in the creation and development of Pakistan.
However, tensions with neighbouring India remain a concern. The prime minister claimed that a "new Pakistan" has emerged after the armed forces of Pakistan defeated India on May 10. He did not elaborate on the nature of the victory, but did state that water is a lifeline for Pakistan and no compromise will be made on the country's rights under international agreements, such as the Indus Waters Treaty.
Pakistan hails the arbitration court's ruling on the Indus Waters Treaty, a 1960 agreement that allocates control over the waters of the Indus River system between India and Pakistan. The treaty, which has withstood intense political tensions and wars for over six decades, ensures water security for Pakistan's agriculture and obliges India to let the majority of the western rivers' flow continue to Pakistan.
Despite recurring conflicts over Indian hydroelectric projects on western rivers, the treaty's dispute resolution processes have been repeatedly utilised, underscoring its importance as a peacekeeping tool. The treaty is perpetual with no end date or review clause, creating permanent water-sharing obligations that limit India's flexibility to develop hydropower in Jammu and Kashmir.
In response to any potential violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan has threatened a "decisive response". It is important to note that the prime minister did not provide details on how Pakistan will respond if India attempts to block its water.
The Indus Waters Treaty remains a globally respected model for peaceful water sharing and cooperation in a volatile region. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of both nations to find common ground and work towards mutual benefit, despite underlying geopolitical tensions.
Read also:
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Commemoration of 200 Days of American Resurgence Unveiled
- Minister Bärbel Bas expresses doubts about her tenure as a minister following a recent interview during the summer.
- A Tale of Two RussiansGate Notable Figures: Focus on Mike Davis
