Senate chairman Gilani voices concern over India’s actions on IWT Indus Waters Treaty
• US consul general meets Senate chairman • Regional peace, economic ties discussed LAHORE: Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed concern over India’s unilateral actions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), saying that “any attempt to use water as a tool of coercion undermines regional stability and threatens the livelihoods and food security of millions of Pakistanis”. He was speaking to United States Consul General Stetson Sanders, who called on him here on Saturday. Mr Gilani called upon the international community to support the restoration of treaty obligations and adherence to international law. Following the unilateral suspension of the IWT in April 2025, in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, India escalated dam construction and began heavily regulating water at existing facilities such as the Baglihar Dam, posing a threat to Pakistan’s water supply. Mr Gilani and Mr Sanders exchanged views on matters relating to Pakistan-US ties, trade and investment, besides regional peace and security. The Senate chairman reiterated the country’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with the US, describing bilateral ties as an important pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy, based on mutual respect, shared objectives and forward-looking cooperation. During the meeting, Mr Gilani appreciated the confidence reposed by US President Donald Trump and his administration in Pakistan’s constructive role for regional peace and diplomacy. He noted that Pakistan was pleased to host the historic Islamabad Talks, which facilitated direct dialogue between the US and Iran and underscored Pakistan’s role as a responsible stakeholder in promoting peace and stability. Expanding cooperation The Senate chairman highlighted the positive momentum generated through recent high-level engagements between the two countries and emphasised the need to further expand cooperation in trade, investment, information technology, energy, mi...
Original source: Dawn Pakistan