Pakistan assumes SCO chairmanship amid Indus Waters Treaty dispute

Following its assumption of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) chairmanship for 2026–27, Pakistan has highlighted regional connectivity and trade as primary objectives. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need to translate summit promises into tangible projects, including enhanced transport connectivity and the potential creation of an SCO Bank.

During the summit, Pakistan also raised concerns regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, accusing India of “water weaponisation.” Islamabad maintains that water must not be used as an instrument of political coercion or leverage. This follows India's decision to place the treaty in abeyance after an April 2025 attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which India attributed to Pakistan.

India has rejected these accusations, stating that the treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan addresses terrorism concerns. India has also dismissed a Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling on the matter, labeling the tribunal “illegally constituted.” The dispute leaves the long-standing water-sharing agreement in a state of diplomatic deadlock.