London: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister (FM) Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held delegation level talks with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and National Security Adviser (NSA) Jonathan Powell in London. The high level meetings focused on strengthening bilateral ties, evaluating regional security developments, and addressing key international issues, including cross border terrorism and the Indus Waters Treaty.
During the discussions, both sides agreed to establish a structured mechanism for formal talks between their respective foreign ministries to maintain sustained high level engagement, review bilateral progress, and enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. The two ministers also acknowledged the crucial role played by the Pakistani diaspora in strengthening the historic people to people links between Pakistan and the UK. Additionally, discussions with NSA Jonathan Powell centred on enhancing bilateral cooperation in counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and security.
On regional matters, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband commended Pakistan’s active diplomatic and mediation efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and stability in the Middle East. However, DPM Ishaq Dar expressed grave concern regarding the ongoing security threats emanating from Afghan soil, stressing the urgent need to neutralise terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan that threaten Pakistan’s peace and stability.
A central point of discussion was the status of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, with FM Dar reiterating Pakistan’s principled stance that the agreement remains legally binding, untouchable, and vital to regional stability. Contrary to misconceptions of a complete breakdown or formal revocation, the 64 year old accord contains no provision for unilateral abrogation or suspension. Pakistan firmly contends that India's attempts to place the treaty "in abeyance" or demand modifications outside the mutually agreed framework lack legal standing under international law.
Islamabad emphasised that the lower riparian rights of its 250 million citizens represent a non negotiable red line, as the agricultural heartland and food security of the country depend entirely on the uninterrupted flow of the western rivers. Stressing that dispute resolution must adhere strictly to established treaty mechanisms such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration Pakistan continues to urge its neighbour to abandon unilateral posturing, uphold its international commitments, and ensure water is preserved as a bridge of cooperation rather than weaponised to threaten regional peace.
