Pak-WB experts in IIOJ&K to review hydropower projects

ISLAMABAD: A delegation of Pakistan is on official visit to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) along with neutral experts from the World Bank the experts to review work on controversial hydropwer projects in the state.

The visit is related to ongoing hydropower projects, which Pakistan objects to. The members of Indian delegation are also representing their country.

In the 15-day visit, there will also be detailed discussions between the parties on Pakistan’s reservations.

The arrival of official delegation of Pakistan to Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir after termination of special status of Kashmir by New Delhi in 2019 is considered important by the observers. This is the first diplomatic activity between the two countries after Indian extreme move on August 5, 2019. They see it a sign of flexibility in New Delhi’s tough stance in relations with Pakistan.

This development is also being interpreted as the beginning to end the diplomatic tension between Islamabad and Delhi. According to Indian media, official sources in New Delhi and Srinagar say India is willing to resolve the outstanding issues through mutual cooperation and discussion.

After elections in India, with Narendra Modi taking oath as Prime Minister for the third time, this development is being termed as important.

Pakistan has raised objections to at least 10 hydropower projects which are under construction in Indian-Held Kashmir. Islamabad is of the view these projects violate the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 between the two countries for fair distribution of water of Indus River and other rivers.