ISLAMABAD — Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy called on all parties to uphold their obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), following India’s unilateral suspension of the treaty last month. Speaking at the end of his two-day visit to Islamabad, Lammy emphasized the importance of abiding by international agreements amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
India suspended its role in the 1960 treaty after blaming Pakistan without evidence for a deadly attack in Pahalgam, occupied Kashmir—a charge Pakistan denies, offering a neutral investigation instead. The IWT governs water sharing from the Indus River system, with Pakistan warning that any disruption would be considered an act of war.
Lammy also confirmed that Britain is working closely with the United States to ensure the ceasefire between India and Pakistan endures. He stressed the need for dialogue and confidence-building measures between the two historically fraught neighbors to avoid further escalation.
“We want to ensure that the ceasefire holds and that dialogue continues,” Lammy said, highlighting the fragile peace. He added that Britain will continue cooperating with Pakistan to counter terrorism, which he described as a severe challenge affecting the region.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump revealed in an interview that Washington had prevented a potential nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan during the recent military clashes. Trump called the ceasefire brokered on May 10 a significant achievement and spoke of his efforts to use trade incentives to encourage peace between the two nations.
Trump acknowledged the deep trade imbalances with both countries, noting Pakistan faces high tariffs on its exports to the US. He also highlighted ongoing negotiations with India to reduce tariffs and expand trade relations, describing India’s recent trade offer as a positive step.
The ceasefire marked the end of a tense week following Indian airstrikes and retaliatory actions by Pakistan, after accusations linked to the Pahalgam attack. Although the ceasefire holds for now, diplomats warn the situation remains delicate as underlying disputes continue unresolved.
Talks between India and Pakistan, proposed to be held in a third country, remain without a confirmed date or venue.