Pakistan has welcomed any positive role by China regarding Himalayan water resources. Officials described Beijing as an important stakeholder in the region’s shared river systems.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi made the remarks during the weekly media briefing on Thursday. He said the Indus Waters issue remains among Pakistan’s highest national priorities.
Pakistan Closely Monitors Indus Basin Developments
Andrabi said Islamabad is closely monitoring India’s activities concerning the Indus river basin. Meanwhile, he welcomed any positive developments involving China.
He said China remains an important partner because it shares Himalayan water resources with other regional countries. Moreover, he described the Himalayan Ice Cap as a shared natural heritage.
According to Andrabi, cooperation among regional stakeholders remains essential for sustainable water resource management. He added that Pakistan continues monitoring developments related to the Indus Waters Treaty.
The spokesperson said Pakistan reserves the right to take necessary measures if its legitimate water interests face threats. However, he maintained that no country could make Pakistan barren through unilateral actions.
Climate Change Remains Biggest Regional Water Challenge
Andrabi said the Himalayan river system stretches from the Indus to the Mekong. Furthermore, he noted that the glaciers supply water to billions of people across several countries.
He stressed that Himalayan glaciers remain a vital water source for nations, including China. Therefore, regional cooperation is necessary to protect shared water resources.
According to Andrabi, climate change remains the greatest threat to the Himalayan river system. However, he added that certain actions by India have created additional challenges.
He said the Indus Waters Treaty provides a clear legal framework for Pakistan, India and the World Bank. Therefore, Pakistan remains committed to fully implementing the agreement.
Andrabi warned that any disruption to Indus waters would affect every Pakistani citizen. He added that water security unites the nation, while the last formal treaty meeting took place in 2022.
