ISLAMABAD: The third meeting between Pakistan and India regarding the Ratle and Kishenganga hydroelectric projects took place in Vienna, focusing on the competence of the neutral expert under the Indus Waters Treaty. This meeting is part of ongoing proceedings initiated by India.
According to the Permanent Court of Arbitration, Michel Lino, the neutral expert appointed under the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, presided over the meeting. Both Pakistan and India made their opening and rebuttal submissions on the matter of competence under paragraph 7 of Annexure F of the Treaty.
Pakistan’s delegation included Ahmad Irfan Aslam, counsel Sir Daniel Bethlehem KC, Professor Philippa Webb, Dr. Cameron Miles, and key officials from various ministries. India’s delegation was led by Debashree Mukherjee, with Harish Salve KC as their legal counsel.
This meeting marks the completion of submissions from both parties. The neutral expert will now proceed to decide on his competence under the Treaty.
Earlier, Pakistan submitted its statement on February 1, 2024, with India’s response following on June 14, 2024. The neutral expert also conducted site visits of the projects in June 2024.
The case continues under the supervision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s Vienna Office, with further decisions expected.
