Zardari slams IWT breaches as ‘existential threat’ to milions of Pakistanis

DOHA: In a stark warning at the World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, President Asif Ali Zardari denounced the “weaponisation of water” and flagrant violations of the Indus Waters Treaty as an existential threat, imperiling the lives and livelihoods of 240 million Pakistanis.

The president condemned the genocide, apartheid and mass starvation in Palestine (Gaza), calling for a just and lasting peace. He also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Kashmir, linking both struggles as two sides of the same coin in the pursuit of justice and self-determination.

Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari called for social justice, equality, dignity, expansion of social protection and a fair global financial system for inclusive growth. He emphasized the need for social integration based on equality, solidarity and respect for human rights. He called for the eradication of poverty in all its forms, promoting full and productive employment and decent work for all. “We must ensure global institutions are inclusive and responsive, especially to the needs of the Global South,” he said. Outlining a roadmap to translate the Doha Declaration into action, he urged the world to unite around three pillars — dignity, equality, and solidarity — emphasising global financial reforms, debt relief, equitable taxation and expanded social protection.

The president said Pakistan remains steadfast in placing people at the centre of policies. “Our vision for inclusive and sustainable development is fully aligned with the spirit of Doha Declaration,” he said. Asif Ali Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s flagship Benazir Income Support Programme, which has empowered over nine million families with income assistance as well as healthcare and educational support.

The president welcomed the adoption of Doha Political Declaration and expressed the hope that it would renew global commitment to eliminating poverty and promoting social development. Referring to the impacts of climate change, the president said Pakistan is investing in resilient adaptation, ensuring that growth remains green, inclusive and long-lasting. He also condemned the Palestinian genocide, apartheid and mass starvation in Palestine (Gaza), calling for a just and lasting peace.

In another development, President Asif Ali Zardari met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong support for multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in promoting peace, equity and shared prosperity.

The president underscored the importance of resolving longstanding disputes, including Jammu and Kashmir, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and called for the reversal of India’s unilateral and illegal measures. He also reiterated Pakistan’s principled position on Palestine, stressing the need to end the suffering of the Palestinian people.

Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari drew attention to India’s weaponisation of water, noting unilateral suspension of the water-sharing agreement and cessation of river discharge data, creating man-made disasters for Pakistan.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari met with Prime Minister/ Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani who specially came to visit him at the hotel in Doha.

During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding bilateral relations, promoting trade and enhancing investment opportunities.

The Qatari prime minister acknowledged the bravery of the Pakistani nation and Armed Forces during the recent Pakistan-India conflict and expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s resilience. He also emphasised the hope that ongoing initiatives in Afghanistan would lead to lasting peace and stability.

President Asif Ali Zardari invited the Qatari leadership to invest in Pakistan, specifically in the stock exchange, to which the Qatari Prime Minister responded that Qatar is already investing in the Pakistan Stock Exchange and intends to increase the volume of its investments.

In another meeting, President Zardari invited Tajikistan to explore new avenues of trade and connectivity through Pakistan, including restoring direct flights. Speaking with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, he said Pakistan greatly values its multifaceted relationship with Tajikistan, rooted in shared history, culture and linguistic affinity.

Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to assist Tajikistan in defence cooperation and capacity building. The president also met the President of the Republic of Iraq, Dr Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid. Both leaders reviewed Pakistan-Iraq relations.

First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar were present during these meetings.