Pakistan on Thursday issued a strong warning against any attempt to block its water resources. Officials said such actions could have serious regional consequences.
The Foreign Office responded to recent remarks from India’s water minister regarding water supplies. Consequently, Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to protecting national interests.
Speaking during a weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan viewed the matter seriously. He warned that deliberately blocking vital water resources could trigger far-reaching consequences.
FO Rejects Use of Water as Political Tool
The statement followed comments by Indian Water Minister CR Patil. A day earlier, Patil claimed no water would reach Pakistan in coming years.
He stated that India was actively pursuing the objective under directives from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Therefore, Pakistan expressed concern over the implications of such remarks.
Andrabi said restricting water crucial for millions of Pakistanis would be highly irresponsible. Moreover, he stressed that such actions would violate international obligations governing transboundary rivers.
He also noted that any move against water flows would contradict bilateral agreements. Furthermore, Pakistan rejected any attempt to use water as a tool of coercion.
Pakistan Vows to Defend Water Rights
The Foreign Office maintained that Pakistan’s water rights remain non-negotiable. Accordingly, officials pledged to defend those rights through all lawful means.
Andrabi said Pakistan would employ diplomatic, political, legal, and economic measures if required. Additionally, he emphasized that water security directly affects livelihoods, agriculture, and national development.
The spokesperson warned that such actions could threaten regional peace and stability. Therefore, he urged India to respect international commitments and avoid escalating tensions.
Pakistan also reiterated its right to self-defence under international law. Meanwhile, authorities pledged to safeguard the interests of more than 250 million citizens.
The Foreign Office confirmed that Pakistan would continue monitoring developments related to shared water resources. Officials stressed that responsible actions remain essential for maintaining regional stability.
