Former President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Iftikhar Ali Malik, has warned that sustainable peace in South Asia will remain unattainable until the longstanding Kashmir dispute and water-related issues between India and Pakistan are resolved through sincere and result-oriented dialogue.

The senior business leader, who served for two years as President of the SAARC Chamber – the regional representative body for trade and industry – stated that these two fundamental issues are major obstacles to peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the region.

He emphasized that the unresolved Kashmir conflict poses a serious threat to regional security. That peace cannot prevail until UN resolutions recognize the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He further stated that ongoing human rights violations and the oppression of the Kashmiri people are making the issue even more complex.

Highlighting the urgency of water-related concerns, he pointed out that India’s alleged violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the construction of dams on western rivers are causing severe water shortages in Pakistan, particularly impacting agriculture and employment.

He appealed to international mediators and the United Nations to intervene and ensure the implementation of existing agreements, thereby avoiding further tensions.

Iftikhar Malik asserted that resolving political disputes is essential to making SAARC an effective regional platform. He expressed regret that political hostility has hindered trade, economic integration, and people-to-people contact among member countries.

He appealed to the Indian leadership to demonstrate statesmanship and come to the negotiating table to pave the way for regional prosperity. He concluded that peace and stability in South Asia are not possible without justice, and if we truly envision a united and economically strong South Asia, the Kashmir and water disputes must be resolved peacefully and fairly.