Brussels (GNP): Members of the European Parliament have backed Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty and called for international efforts to ensure the agreement is honored. The support came during a meeting on global governance at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the European Union (EU), Belgium and Luxembourg, Rahim Hayat Qureshi, addressed the gathering. He told participants that respect for international law and treaties is essential for global stability, and he used that argument to raise Pakistan’s concerns over the water-sharing agreement.
Qureshi also called for the dispute over what Pakistan terms Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) to be resolved in line with relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions. He said relations between states should rest on equal rights, and he urged that all relevant parties be included in efforts to reform the UN.
The ambassador widened his remarks to cover global cooperation on reforming the financial system, tackling climate change and developing modern technologies. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism with the UN at its centre.
Lawmakers responded directly on the treaty. Czech Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Andrej Dostál supported Pakistan’s position on the agreement. German MEP Michael von der Schulenburg urged the international community to help ensure the treaty is implemented and complied with.
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The discussion took place against a backdrop of rising tension. India announced in April 2025 that it would hold the treaty in abeyance after an attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan rejected that decision and maintains that the agreement cannot be suspended unilaterally.
A legal ruling has since strengthened Pakistan’s case. On 31 August 2026, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) at The Hague ruled that the treaty remains fully in force despite India’s decision. The court rejected India’s legal arguments for suspension and affirmed that New Delhi is still bound by its obligations.
The treaty was brokered by the World Bank and signed in 1960, and it governs the sharing of the Indus River system between Pakistan and India. It remains a major source of friction between the two neighbours, and Islamabad has warned that any attempt to restrict its water flows would carry serious consequences.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
