Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday praised the World Bank for its support of Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty, criticising India’s “unilateral and illegal” actions that he said undermine the landmark agreement.
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan for the attack but provided no evidence. Islamabad strongly denied the allegations.
On April 23, India closed the Wagah border crossing, revoked Pakistani visas, and announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan condemned the move as an “act of war” and responded by sealing the Wagah border from its side.
In a meeting with Ousmane Dione, World Bank Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to upholding international law, pursuing peaceful dialogue, and promoting regional prosperity.
The prime minister expressed appreciation for the World Bank’s longstanding partnership and described its backing as aligned with Pakistan’s lawful stance on water rights under the treaty.
Shehbaz also acknowledged the strategic role of the Country Partnership Framework in supporting Pakistan’s national priorities, particularly in the areas of energy, climate change, human development, and governance reform.
