ISLAMABAD, AUG 9 /DNA/ – The International Institute for Regional and International Studies (IIRIS), in collaboration with the (COPAIR), successfully convened a high-level International Conference on the Indus Water Treaty, bringing together distinguished diplomats, maritime experts, researchers, and water governance specialists to deliberate on emerging challenges to water security, climate resilience, and regional environmental cooperation.

The conference provided an important platform for informed dialogue on the future of the Indus Basin, the evolving dynamics surrounding the Indus Water Treaty, and the wider implications of water security for regional peace, stability, and cooperation.

The event commenced with opening remarks by Amna Munawwar Awan, , who highlighted the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation in addressing the complex water challenges confronting the region.

The technical sessions featured distinguished experts who offered diverse strategic, geopolitical, diplomatic, legal, environmental, and governance perspectives. Vice Admiral Dr. Ahmed Saeed addressed the Strategic Dimensions of the Indus Water Treaty and Regional Maritime Security, highlighting the broader strategic significance of water resources and maritime security.

Flavius Caba-Maria examined Geopolitical Perspectives on Transboundary Water Management, focusing on the regional and geopolitical dimensions of shared water resources. Ambassador G.R. Baluch discussed the Diplomatic Challenges and Legal Frameworks of the Indus Waters, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy, international law, and institutional mechanisms.

Shafiqat Rasool, President IIRIS, spoke on Climate Resilience and Regional Environmental Cooperation, emphasizing the growing impact of climate change on water security and the need for stronger regional environmental partnerships. Naseer Memon addressed Water Governance, Vulnerabilities, and Sustainable Allocation in the Indus Basin, highlighting governance challenges and the importance of sustainable and equitable water management.

The discussions underscored that water security is no longer solely an environmental or developmental concern but has increasingly become interconnected with regional security, diplomacy, climate change, economic stability, and peace. Speakers stressed the importance of constructive engagement, evidence-based policymaking, strengthened water governance, and regional cooperation to address emerging challenges in the Indus Basin.

The conference concluded with remarks by Shafiqat Rasool, President IIRIS, who emphasized the importance of continuing intellectual and diplomatic engagement on water-related challenges. He reaffirmed IIRIS’s commitment to providing platforms that connect research, diplomacy, policy dialogue, and regional cooperation on critical issues affecting Pakistan and the wider region.

The successful conference reflects the shared commitment of IIRIS and COPAIR to advancing meaningful dialogue on critical regional issues and contributing to informed policy discussions on water security, climate resilience, and sustainable regional cooperation.

The International Institute for Regional and International Studies (IIRIS) is a research and policy-oriented platform focused on international relations, regional affairs, diplomacy, strategic studies, peace and conflict, and emerging global challenges. IIRIS provides platforms for researchers, diplomats, policymakers, academics, and practitioners to exchange knowledge and promote informed dialogue on issues of regional and international significance.