Pm Expresses Gratitude To World Bank For Backing On Indus Waters Matter

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday commended the World Bank for backing Pakistan’s stance on the Indus Waters Treaty, particularly in light of India’s unilateral actions that could undermine key international agreements.
During a meeting with Ousmane Dione, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, the prime minister expressed gratitude for the Bank’s consistent and principled support.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast adherence to international law, commitment to regional peace, and preference for resolving disputes through dialogue.
India suspended its involvement in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty after blaming Pakistan for an April attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people—an accusation Pakistan has firmly denied.
Prime Minister Sharif also highlighted Pakistan’s enduring partnership with the World Bank, acknowledging the importance of the Country Partnership Framework in advancing development in vital areas such as energy, education, climate resilience, and governance.
He expressed particular appreciation for the World Bank’s swift and substantial support in the aftermath of the devastating 2022 floods, which played a critical role in the country’s relief and recovery operations.
Ousmane Dione reiterated the World Bank’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with Pakistan and contributing to its economic growth. He applauded Pakistan’s progress toward macroeconomic recovery and the government’s initiatives aimed at ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainable development.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to further deepen cooperation, aiming to achieve long-term development goals and improve the well-being of the Pakistani people.
