Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has shared a statement by Chinese analyst Dr Victor Gao reaffirming Beijing’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its rights under the Indus River system.
Speaking at the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) Seminar in Islamabad on June 30, Dr Gao said no country in the region should question China’s commitment to defending Pakistan’s fundamental interests. He stressed that China’s support extends beyond Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity to include the Pakistani people’s right to the free flow of water in the Indus River.
The remarks, posted by Khawaja Asif on his X handle, come amid ongoing concerns over regional water security and the implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
No one in this part of the world should second-guess China’s commitment to defending Pakistan’s fundamental interests, especially its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In the context of our meeting today, this also includes the Pakistani people’s right to the free flow of… pic.twitter.com/ElpzcWhAAU
— Khawaja M. Asif (@KhawajaMAsif) July 1, 2026
French newspaper Le Monde ealier warned that the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty marks a dangerous turning point for water security in South Asia and could have consequences beyond Pakistan and India.
According to the report, India used water as a political pressure tool after the Pahalgam incident in April 2025. The newspaper stressed that neither country can suspend the Indus Waters Treaty on its own, as both sides must agree to any changes.
Le Monde said the Permanent Court of Arbitration continues to recognise the treaty as valid. The report added that India’s failure to share hydrological data has made it harder for Pakistan to issue flood warnings and manage water-related risks.
The newspaper highlighted the difficulties faced by farmers in Punjab, where sudden flooding damaged crops and left layers of sand on farmland. Families living along the Chenab River also lost livestock, crops, and household belongings.
The report said Pakistan considers any attempt to stop or divert water flows a serious provocation. It noted statements by Indian leaders that linked water to political disputes, while also mentioning Pakistan’s description of such actions as “water terrorism.”
Le Monde said Pakistan’s concerns go beyond politics and include human rights, food security, agriculture, and survival. More than 80 per cent of Pakistan’s agriculture depends on the Indus River system, making it vital to the country’s economy and millions of people.
Also Read: FO terms India’s river diversion plan serious breach of Indus Waters Treaty
