Pakistan Raises Water Weaponisation Issue at UN

Pakistan has strongly cautioned against the weaponisation of water, warning that using it as a tool for division could lead to serious regional and global consequences.

Address at UN General Assembly

Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly during a high-level meeting on Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to global water cooperation. SDG 6 focuses on ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Call for Legal Frameworks on Shared Waters

In his national statement, Ambassador Jadoon highlighted the importance of the upcoming 2026 Water Conference. He said the conference “must serve as a catalyst for accelerating progress toward SDG 6.” Jadoon also called for an international law-based approach to manage shared rivers and aquifers, stressing that cooperation is essential.

Warning Against Politicisation of Water

Jadoon stressed that Pakistan believes in fair water sharing and responsible use of resources. He warned that “any politicisation or strategic manipulation of water resources would undermine the spirit of cooperation needed to address global water insecurity.”

Bilawal’s Strong Message to India

Last month, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari issued a direct warning to India regarding the Indus Waters Treaty. “India has two options: either it abides by the Indus Waters Treaty, or Pakistan would respond with war,” he said during the National Assembly’s budget session.

Pakistan’s Diplomatic Success

Bilawal also noted that his delegation’s visits to international capitals helped strengthen Pakistan’s position. He added, “Pakistan has defeated India on the battlefield, as well as on the diplomatic and narrative fronts,” stressing the country’s peaceful stance.