India,Iran review status of IPI gas pipeline

New Delhi, Nov 16 (UNI) India and Iran today held discussions on strengthening cooperation in the field of energy and reviewed status of the Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline.

Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki, who atrrived here earlier during the day on a two-day official visit, met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee separately.

He held detailed discussions with the Indian leaders, which continued over a dinner hosted by the External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee.

The two sides reviewed the bilateral relationship with its close, traditional and historical linkages, frequent high level political contacts and economic cooperation.

It was felt that the economic potential of the relationship needed to be actualised to the maximum.

''In this context, the possibilities of closer cooperation in the field of energy, including the status of the IPI pipeline were reviewed,'' an External Affars Ministry spokesman said.

Mr Mukherjee pointed out that Indian companies were keen to invest in Iran and the early conclusion of a Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPA) as well as an agreement for Avoidance of Double Taxation would provide the necessary basis for promoting such investment.

The two sides also discussed regional issues, including Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf.

Mr Mottaki extended an invitation to the Prime Minister on behalf of President Ahmedinejad, to visit Iran.

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