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Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif speaking during a joint press briefing with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in Islamabad --Photo: Goverment of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has raised Islamabad’s concerns over Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty during talks with Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, as the two countries seek to strengthen bilateral relations.

Speaking during a joint press briefing in Islamabad, Sharif outlined Pakistan’s positions on its longstanding disputes with India, including the Kashmir issue and India’s decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

Pakistan Outlines Its Position on India

Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s support for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people, referring to relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

He also criticised India’s decision concerning the Indus Waters Treaty, arguing that international agreements must be respected and shared water resources should not be used as instruments of political pressure.

The 1960 treaty governs the sharing of the Indus River system’s waters between India and Pakistan. The two countries have been at odds over the agreement and its implementation.

Sharif said Pakistan would continue raising its position on these matters at international forums.

Muizzu Emphasises Regional Cooperation

During the briefing, President Muizzu highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and expressed the Maldives’ readiness to work with South Asian countries to strengthen engagement and facilitate future meetings of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Muizzu did not publicly respond to Sharif’s remarks on India, Kashmir or the Indus Waters Treaty during the briefing.

The visit provides an opportunity for the Maldives and Pakistan to strengthen bilateral ties and explore cooperation across various sectors, amid broader regional diplomatic and political challenges.

The Maldives maintains diplomatic relations with both Pakistan and India, making regional stability and constructive engagement important considerations in its foreign relations.

The visit comes as the Maldives and Pakistan mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.