Addressing the Global Conference on Glacier Conservation in Dushanbe, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed India’s attempts to unilaterally suspend the water treaty as extremely dangerous and regrettable, warning that Pakistan would not compromise on its water sovereignty. He said that the water rights of millions of people cannot be held hostage for political purposes and India should be clearly aware of the “red line” that will not be allowed to be crossed. The Prime Minister pointed out that just as the indiscriminate use of lethal weapons in Gaza is a blow to humanity, similarly the new method of using water as a weapon is a cause of concern for the international community. Shehbaz Sharif said that the Indus Water Treaty is the guarantor of water balance in the region and India’s attempt to sabotage this treaty is not only illegal but could also prove dangerous for regional peace. He called on the international community to take notice of India’s behavior and play its role in ensuring equitable use of water.

He also highlighted the growing threats of climate change in his speech. The Prime Minister said that there are more than 13,000 glaciers in Pakistan, which provide half of the country’s water reserves, but due to the increase in global warming, these glaciers are melting rapidly. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan faced severe floods, heavy rains and agricultural and economic losses due to climate change in 2022, while Pakistan’s share in global greenhouse gas emissions is less than half a percent. Despite this, Pakistan is among the 10 countries facing the biggest impacts of climate change. The Prime Minister emphasized that the protection of glaciers is not only essential for the future of Pakistan, but also for the region and the international community, and urgent and practical steps should be taken in this direction. Stressing on climate justice, he said that developed countries should accept their responsibilities.