Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to International Water Law Amidst Regional Tensions
— January 17, 2026
BERLIN (AIA) Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to international water law, highlighting the importance of cooperation over shared water resources for peace and stability in the region.
Addressing the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture-2026 in Berlin, Germany, the Minister emphasized Pakistan’s principled position that water security is fundamental to food security. He cited the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 as a vital framework for regional water stability, expressing concern over India’s announcement to unilaterally hold the Treaty in abeyance.
“The Indus river system is a lifeline for Pakistan, supporting agriculture, industry, and ecosystems for over 240 million people,” the Minister said, highlighting the vulnerability of the system to climate change and water stress.
Pakistan is prioritizing water resilience, sustainable agriculture, and food security, with ongoing reforms to improve water productivity in agriculture. The country is also promoting the safe reuse of treated wastewater to develop a sustainable blue bioeconomy.
The Minister met World Trade Organization Deputy Director General Jean-Marie Paugam on the sidelines, discussing issues of mutual interest, particularly agriculture and food systems. Pakistan is ready to work with international partners to advance water resilience and transform water from a source of risk into a foundation for sustainable development and peace.