ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Victor Gao, Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization, has strongly underscored the importance of upholding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in both letter and spirit, cautioning against any use of the Indus River as a means of coercion or blackmail against Pakistan. His remarks come amid escalating tensions following India’s recent decision to “hold in abeyance” the 1960 treaty that governs water sharing between the two countries.
Call for Respect and Regional Cooperation on Water Sharing
In an interview with an Indian news channel, Gao criticized unilateral actions to divert shared water resources, urging the parties involved to engage in cooperative management of these vital rivers. “Never use the Indus River as blackmail against the people of Pakistan,” he said. “Do not do unto others what you do not want others to do unto you.”
He reaffirmed China’s unwavering “iron-clad friendship” with Pakistan, emphasizing Beijing’s firm opposition to any attempts to undermine Pakistan’s legitimate interests under the treaty. Gao highlighted China’s upstream position in South Asia’s river systems, noting the strategic role it plays in regional water diplomacy.
Strategic Role of China in South Asia’s River Systems
“China is in the upper stream, India in the midstream. It is not appropriate for India to interfere unilaterally with shared waters,” Gao remarked, referring to the geographical realities that most major rivers in the region originate in Tibet.
He also stressed the need for a trilateral dialogue between China, India, and Pakistan to ensure equitable and sustainable management of the Indus and Brahmaputra river systems. “Only through mutual understanding and cooperation can the region ensure the sustainable and peaceful use of these vital resources,” Gao concluded.
Context of Rising Tensions
The Indus Waters Treaty, mediated by the World Bank in 1960, allocates control over the Indus river system’s six rivers: Pakistan has rights to the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers, while India administers the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej.
India’s recent move to suspend the treaty has alarmed Islamabad, which has warned that any attempt to obstruct or divert Pakistan’s share of water will be regarded as “an act of war.” Pakistan has pledged to use all national resources in defense of its water rights.
