In a move with potential implications for India-Pakistan relations, a Pakistani delegation recently visited Jammu and Kashmir. This marked the first time Pakistani officials set foot in the region since India’s controversial abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
What was the purpose of the visit?
The delegation’s visit wasn’t diplomatic in nature. It was a technical visit facilitated by the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), a 1960 agreement governing water rights between the two nations. The purpose? To inspect the Kishenganga and Ratle hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir, projects that Pakistan has raised objections to since 2016.
The IWT is a vital agreement for both India and Pakistan. It divides the water rights of the Indus River system, a lifeline for millions in both countries. While the treaty has ensured relative peace on the water front for decades, tensions have flared regarding projects on the Indus tributaries.
Pakistan argues that the Kishenganga and Ratle projects violate the IWT by significantly reducing water flow downstream into Pakistan. The appointment of a Neutral Expert by the World Bank as part of the treaty’s dispute resolution mechanism necessitated the Pakistani delegation’s visit for on-site inspection.
A Tentative Step Towards Engagement?
While not a high-level diplomatic visit, the Pakistani delegation’s presence in India after a strained period holds some significance. It indicates a willingness on both sides to engage on issues governed by existing agreements, even amidst political differences.
The larger issue of Kashmir and the abrogation of Article 370 remain a major sticking point in India-Pakistan relations. Pakistan continues to vehemently oppose the move, and tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) remain high.
Pakistani delegation visit is a small but potentially positive development. Whether it translates into broader dialogue and a thawing of relations remains to be seen. Both nations face significant challenges in overcoming historical mistrust and addressing core issues. However, any step towards peaceful engagement is a welcome sign for the future of the subcontinent.
