Water will not be allowed to be used as a weapon, PM Shehbaz tells SCO
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has warned against using water as a political weapon, saying water is the lifeline of the region and must not be used to exert political pressure.
Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State meeting, the prime minister said global agreements must be implemented fully and in accordance with their spirit and letter.
“Using water as a weapon for political objectives or pressure is unacceptable,” Shehbaz Sharif said, stressing that water was essential for the survival and future of generations across the region.
His remarks come amid continuing tensions between Pakistan and India over the Indus Waters Treaty, with Pakistan maintaining that water resources cannot be weaponised for political purposes.
‘Water is guarantee of region’s future’
The prime minister said South Asia could not realise its full potential without sustainable peace and regional cooperation.
“Water is the lifeline of our region and the guarantee of life for our future generations,” he said.
Shehbaz stressed that international agreements should be respected and implemented according to their agreed terms, underscoring Pakistan’s position that disputes over shared water resources must be addressed through international law and established mechanisms.
Mecca Agreement not against any country
The prime minister also clarified that the Mecca Agreement is not directed against any country, saying Pakistan supports strengthening the multilateral system and peaceful resolution of disputes.
He said Pakistan remained committed to sustainable regional peace and had played an effective role in reducing tensions during the recent regional crisis.
According to Shehbaz, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts contributed to the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which he described as an important step towards reducing regional tensions.
Pakistan stresses peaceful resolution of disputes
The prime minister said Pakistan believed in the peaceful resolution of disputes and respect for international law.
He said the international community must ensure that agreements and commitments were translated into practical action, particularly in matters affecting regional peace and stability.
Shehbaz also highlighted growing geopolitical tensions and said recent crises had demonstrated the importance of secure energy corridors and stronger regional coordination.
“Regional coordination is no longer a choice but a strategic necessity,” he said.
