Pakistan Criticises Jaishankar's Comments on Regional Relations

Pakistan has expressed strong disapproval of comments made by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, asserting that they serve to distract from India's own controversial actions in the region. Jaishankar's remarks, which he made on Friday, emphasised India's right to protect its citizens from 'bad neighbours', indirectly referring to Pakistan without naming it. He stated that a country engaged in terrorism should not expect cooperation regarding water sharing.

In response, Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi firmly rejected these 'irresponsible assertions'. He accused India of attempting to divert attention from its own record of fostering instability in the region. Andrabi's statement highlighted concerns over India's actions, suggesting that they contribute to escalating tensions.

Furthermore, Andrabi reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), an agreement established in 1960 to regulate the distribution of water from the Indus River and its tributaries between the two nations. He warned that any unilateral actions by India concerning the treaty would threaten regional stability and asserted that Pakistan would take necessary measures to protect its rights under the agreement.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, has been pivotal in managing water resources between India and Pakistan for over six decades. The treaty was originally concluded in good faith and at significant cost to both sides, making any violation a serious concern for Pakistan.

Andrabi also reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Kashmiri people, pledging full political, moral, and diplomatic support for their pursuit of self-determination. He emphasised the importance of international diplomacy in resolving regional conflicts and maintaining peace.

This exchange of statements comes in the backdrop of heightened tensions between the two countries, particularly following incidents of violence and military posturing in the region. The situation remains closely monitored by international observers, who are concerned about the potential for escalation in hostilities due to the ongoing disputes over water and security issues.

This diplomatic disagreement reflects the complexities of India-Pakistan relations, which have been marked by a long history of conflict and competition. As both nations navigate their respective national interests, the international community continues to call for dialogue and resolution to avoid further destabilisation in South Asia.