CM Bugti Welcomes Decision Of International Court Of Arbitration On Indus Waters Treaty
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti on Tuesday welcomed the unanimous decision of the International Court of Arbitration on the status of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), terming them a victory for Pakistan. He stated that the developments validated Pakistan’s principled position.
According to the Chief Minister, the court’s decision clearly confirmed that India could not unilaterally suspend, terminate, or "put in abeyance" the Indus Waters Treaty. The treaty remains in force and legally binding on India.
Mr. Bugti noted that the court did not accept India’s various justifications for the treaty’s suspension or termination, including sovereignty, alleged violation by Pakistan, terrorism, change in circumstances, armed conflict, and countermeasures.
He emphasized that the court clarified that the Indus Waters Treaty could be amended or terminated only through a new agreement with the mutual consent of Pakistan and India.
The CM highlighted the importance of this decision in protecting Pakistan’s long-standing rights and interests related to the waters of the Indus River, stating that it further strengthened the principles of adherence to international agreements and the supremacy of international law.
He also mentioned the court’s approval of interim measures requested by Pakistan regarding the Ratle Hydroelectric Project. This includes preventing India from concreting beyond the prescribed level on certain parts of the dam wall and power intake structure, as well as requiring India to submit a report on changes in the project’s construction schedule.
Mr. Bugti noted that these restrictions would remain in place for 90 days after the final decision of the neutral expert, expected in July 2027.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s confidence in international laws, treaties, and the negotiation process, stating that today’s decision is a victory for the principle that no international treaty can be suspended or terminated unilaterally.
The Chief Minister concluded by saying that justice has prevailed, and this unanimous decision is a manifestation of the strength of Pakistan’s principled stance. Pakistan will continue to play an effective role in every legal and diplomatic forum to protect its water rights and uphold international treaties.
