No Compromise on Water Share, PM Cautions India

Dushanbe (RNN TV) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the International Conference on Glacier Protection in Tajikistan’s capital on Thursday, called for urgent global cooperation to combat climate change, highlighting Pakistan’s acute vulnerability despite its negligible contribution to global emissions.

In his remarks, the Prime Minister underscored that Pakistan houses over 13,000 glaciers — the largest concentration outside the polar regions — which serve as a critical freshwater source for the country, feeding nearly 50% of its water supply.

“Glaciers are melting at a dangerous pace due to rising global temperatures,” he said, warning that unchecked climate change is not only threatening water security but also disrupting ecosystems, endangering biodiversity, and putting millions of livelihoods at risk.

Recalling the 2022 floods in Pakistan, which displaced millions and inflicted severe damage on infrastructure and agriculture, PM Shehbaz pointed to erratic weather patterns as a direct consequence of climate-induced instability. “We are among the countries least responsible for the crisis, yet we suffer some of its worst impacts,” he said, noting that Pakistan contributes less than 0.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The Prime Minister called on developed nations to honor their commitments under international climate agreements, urging them to invest more in adaptation strategies and early warning systems for developing countries. “It is a moral obligation and a global necessity,” he emphasized.

In a strong message on regional water security, PM Shehbaz also condemned India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting Pakistan’s stance firmly: “We will not compromise on our rightful share of water.”

He concluded by applauding Tajikistan for convening the conference, describing it as a timely platform for collective reflection and action on protecting glaciers and confronting shared environmental challenges.

Source: Web Desk