Pakistan has welcomed the Supplemental Award issued by the Court of Arbitration in the ongoing Indus Waters Treaty dispute, affirming Islamabad’s long-held position that India cannot unilaterally suspend the treaty or curtail the Court’s jurisdiction.
The Court’s latest ruling validates Pakistan’s stance that unilateral actions by India do not override the competence of the Court or that of the Neutral Expert involved in the proceedings initiated by India. In a unanimous and binding decision, the Court rejected India’s objections and confirmed its authority to proceed with the arbitration case brought forward by Pakistan.
The Court concluded that its jurisdiction remains unaffected by any unilateral decision made by either party after the initiation of arbitral proceedings. It emphasized that India’s claim of placing the treaty in “abeyance” does not undermine the Court’s role under international law.
Importantly, the Court reaffirmed that the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) contains no provision allowing for unilateral suspension, and any suspension or alteration can only occur through mutual agreement between Pakistan and India. The attempt by India to halt the arbitration process was deemed a violation of the treaty’s binding dispute resolution mechanism.
The Court emphasized its continued responsibility to advance proceedings in a fair, efficient, and timely manner, regardless of India’s attempts to stall arbitration. The Tribunal also underscored that its decisions are not subject to appeal and carry full legal authority.
Next Steps and Diplomatic Outlook
Pakistan now awaits the Court’s Award on the First Phase on Merits, expected to be released following the July 2024 hearing held at the Peace Palace in The Hague.
In a broader context, Pakistan continues to advocate for meaningful bilateral engagement with India. On June 24, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to engage in dialogue on all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water, trade, and terrorism.
Background of the Dispute
The current dispute stems from India’s construction of water reservoirs on western rivers, which Pakistan argues violates the Indus Waters Treaty. In 2016, Pakistan formally approached the Court of Arbitration. India, in response, sought the appointment of a Neutral Expert and later attempted to suspend arbitration proceedings unilaterally—an effort now firmly rejected by the Court.
The Court’s latest award reinforces that arbitration proceedings will continue, and the Court will carry out its duties responsibly, transparently, and in accordance with the treaty’s provisions.
