ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has said that it would continue to work with Pakistan and India to resolve all issues relating to Indus Water Treaty, including Kishenganga hydroelectric project, in an “amicable manner” and in line with the Indus Water Treaty provisions.
According to a statement issued by the World Bank on Wednesday, senior World Bank officials met on May 21 and 22 with a delegation from the Government of Pakistan to discuss issues regarding the Indus Waters Treaty and opportunities within the Treaty to seek an amicable resolution.
The delegation of the Government of Pakistan also shared with the Bank their concerns about the recent inauguration of the Kishenganga hydroelectric plant.
Several procedural options for resolving the disagreement over the interpretation of the Treaty’s provisions were discussed.
While an agreement on the way forward was not reached at the conclusion of the meetings, the World Bank will continue to work with both countries to resolve the issues in an amicable manner and in line with the Treaty provisions.
The Indus Waters Treaty is a profoundly important international agreement that provides an essential cooperative framework for India and Pakistan to address current and future challenges of effective water management to meet human needs and achieve development goals, the statement added.
As a signatory to the Treaty, the World Bank’s role is limited and procedural. In particular, the role in relation to “differences” and “disputes” is limited to the designation of people to fulfil certain roles when requested by either or both parties.
The WB, however, reaffirmed its commitment to act in good faith and with complete impartiality and transparency in fulfilling its responsibilities under the Treaty, while continuing to assist the countries.
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