Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Warns India: Stopping Pakistan’s Water Will Be Equivalent to War

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again warned India that any attempt to use water as a weapon against Pakistan will be considered an act of aggression. Speaking at the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit in Azerbaijan, he stressed that such actions would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
During his address, Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev for successfully hosting the summit and acknowledged the warm hospitality extended to the delegation. He also thanked Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for his significant contributions as the outgoing chair of the ECO.
Sharif highlighted the rapid technological changes happening globally and the increasing interdependence among nations. He emphasized the need for regional cooperation, especially in the context of developing technology for sustainable growth and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
“Pakistan is among the most affected countries by climate change, having faced devastating floods in 2022 that impacted over 33 million people,” Sharif noted. He discussed the country’s ongoing efforts to combat environmental challenges and the government’s four-point plan for recovery and reconstruction. He called for collective action among ECO member states to address the global climate crisis, including policies to reduce carbon emissions and enhance climate financing.
The Prime Minister also condemned the recent illegal Israeli attacks on Iran, calling them a destabilizing force in the region. He expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran, emphasizing that such acts of aggression posed a threat to the peace of South Asia. He also condemned India’s actions in the disputed region of Kashmir, describing them as irresponsible and aimed at undermining regional peace.
Sharif also raised concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating that Pakistan stands firm against any form of oppression, whether in Gaza or Indian-occupied Kashmir, and supports the oppressed people in both regions.
One of the most critical points of his speech was India’s attempts to weaponize water, which he termed as highly dangerous. He reiterated that Pakistan’s 240 million citizens rely on the Indus Waters for survival, and any move to disrupt this vital resource would be viewed as an act of aggression.
“The use of water as a weapon will be regarded as an act of war,” Sharif declared firmly, adding that the international community had already rejected India’s actions through the International Court of Justice, especially with regards to violations of the Indus Water Treaty.
Regarding regional cooperation, Sharif emphasized the importance of fostering trade, investment, and stronger transport corridors among ECO member countries. He commended the progress made in establishing these connections and the potential benefits for economic growth across the region.
Lastly, he expressed gratitude for Lahore being selected as the ECO Capital of Tourism for 2027, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of the city. Sharif extended an invitation to all dignitaries to visit Lahore, promising a mesmerizing experience of Pakistan’s rich heritage.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister reiterated that ECO is an essential platform for regional integration, and Pakistan stands committed to strengthening ties and advancing collective prosperity through cooperation and mutual support.