Pakistan reiterated the significance of the 64-year-old Indus Water Treaty (IWT) and expressed hope that New Delhi would continue to abide by its rules, days after India formally requested a review of the accord.
At a press conference, Baloch stated, “Pakistan views the Indus Water Treaty as a significant one and hopes that India will also comply with its provisions.” She emphasized that both countries have a system in place—the Indus Water Commissioners—that allows for the resolution of treaty-related disputes.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a spokesman for Pakistan’s Foreign Office, made the remarks on Thursday in response to India’s notification from August 30 demanding an examination of the long-standing water-sharing agreement.
In its August 30 notice, India stated that a thorough review of the treaty was warranted due to “fundamental and unforeseen” changes in circumstances, which included the effect of ongoing cross-border terrorism.
After nine years of discussions, the Indus Water Treaty was signed in 1960 and has withstood decades of tensions, including wars, to regulate the usage of cross-border rivers between the two countries.
India has requested a review of the treaty previously. A similar notification was sent by New Delhi in January 2023, claiming Pakistan’s noncompliance with its execution.
The consequences of cross-border terrorism have also caused India to express worry. According to Indian officials, the treaty’s clauses need to be updated to take into account the current state of security. India is not happy with Pakistan’s handling of treaty-related disputes, especially with regard to the Kishenganga and Ratle Hydro Electric Projects in Jammu and Kashmir, which is why India is requesting a review.