A World Bank spokesperson has reiterated the institution's limited role in the Indus Waters Treaty, the long-standing water-sharing agreement between Pakistan and India.

The World Bank, as a signatory, does not independently mediate disputes but can appoint a Neutral Expert or facilitate a Court of Arbitration if formally requested by either country. However, as of now, no such request has been made.

This clarification follows recent remarks by World Bank President Ajay Banga, who emphasized that the treaty cannot be suspended without Pakistan’s consent. He noted that the agreement must either be replaced with a new framework or remain intact—any changes would require mutual consensus between India and Pakistan.