ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) on the World Water Day and called for its immediate restoration in line with international obligations.
In a statement, he termed the move a “deliberate weaponisation” of shared water resources, warning that disrupting data-sharing and agreed mechanisms undermines a decades-old framework governing equitable distribution of the Indus River system. He cautioned that such actions threaten food and economic security, endanger livelihoods and set a troubling precedent for managing transboundary resources.
Highlighting this year’s theme, “Water and Gender,” the president noted that water insecurity disproportionately affects women and girls, particularly in areas where access to safe water remains limited. He said many households in Pakistan still rely on distant or unreliable sources, forcing women and children to spend hours collecting water — time that could otherwise be used for education or work.
He stressed that access to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental right and must remain a national priority. Ensuring this requires better resource management, investment in water infrastructure, and greater inclusion of women in decision-making.
The president also encouraged communities to adopt measures such as rainwater harvesting to improve water availability and recharge groundwater. Highlighting the growing pressure on water resources due to population growth and climate variability, he called for more responsible and efficient use of water nationwide.
Separately, President Zardari, in his Pakistan Day message, called on the nation to reaffirm its commitment to the rule of law, stronger democratic institutions, economic and political stability, and the eradication of terrorism and extremism.
He stressed the need to reduce inequality, empower women and uphold the guiding principles of “Unity, Faith and Discipline” to build a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan. Expressing confidence in the country’s resilience, he said Pakistan has the capacity to overcome current challenges as it has done in the past.
Recalling the historic Pakistan Resolution, he paid tribute to the sacrifices that led to the creation of the country and highlighted the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving national goals. The president noted Pakistan’s achievements, including strengthening state institutions, enhancing defence capabilities, and combating terrorism. He reaffirmed the country’s resolve to eliminate militant threats and prevent hostile elements from using foreign soil against Pakistan.
On regional and global issues, he reiterated support for the right to self-determination of people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in line with the UN resolutions and called on the international community to address human rights concerns. He also urged an end to violence against Palestinians and emphasized peaceful resolution of tensions in West Asia through dialogue.
Concluding, the president paid tribute to national heroes and martyrs, urging the nation to move forward with unity and determination for peace, stability and prosperity.
Meanwhile, President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif exchanged Eid greetings on telephone on Saturday. The PM also briefed the president on recent contacts with regional heads of state. They discussed the overall regional situation and its impact on Pakistan.
The president stressed the need for protection of national interests and coordinated strategy in the context of changing situation in the region. He said Pakistan’s interests should be defended at all levels through national consensus and effective diplomatic relations.
On Sunday, President Zardari arrived in Sukkur from Nawabshah, where he was received by senior leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party and local officials at the airport.
Earlier, President Zardari offered Eidul Fitr prayers at the Zardari House in Nawabshah. He prayed for security and development of the country.
After Eid prayers, the president offered Eid greetings to people. He also met elected representatives and notables at the Zardari House in Nawabshah and extended Eid greetings.
The president instructed the elected representatives to focus on the development work in their constituencies and to resolve issues of the public.
