Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari chaired a meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr today to discuss Pakistan’s water resources management, focusing on issues such as water availability, governance, and regional developments impacting the country’s water security.

According to Press Information Department, the President expressed concern over India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, describing the act as a serious political maneuver. He underscored the necessity of protecting Pakistan’s water rights and urged for all diplomatic and legal actions to be pursued to address the situation.

On the energy front, President Zardari directed officials to mitigate load shedding nationwide. He insisted that any load management should be conducted transparently and announced in advance to ensure public awareness and minimize disruption.

The President further instructed authorities to expedite water conservation efforts, including rainwater harvesting and the construction of small dams, recharge wells, and water storage facilities. He highlighted water conservation as a national priority, especially given the current regional climate.

The meeting also covered broader regional issues, with President Zardari emphasizing the need for regional stability. He expressed optimism that Pakistan could find a constructive path forward in the evolving situation with Iran through continued engagement and effort.

Attendees included Federal Ministers Muhammad Moeen Wattoo, Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, and advisers, along with other key officials such as the Secretary of Water Resources, Chairman of WAPDA, and Pakistan Commissioner for Indus Water.