Keen on gas deal with Iran: Pakistan

Islamabad, Jun 21: Pakistan said that it will not violate the international law but has hopes on the multi-million dollar gas pipeline project with Iran. Pakistan made its stand clear following a warning by the United States on the project with Iran.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Pakistan Foreign Minister said that it would be premature to give a final opinion on whether US sanctions targeting Iran could affect the project. His statement came a few hours after US special envoy Richard Holbrooke said that he had asked Pakistan not to 'over-commit themselves' until we know the legislation.

Qureshi added that the gas pipeline project worth 7.5 billion dollars should remain intact as it is in the best interests of the nation at a time when it is grappling with an energy crisis. Qureshi was addressing the media in Multan where he made the opinions of Pak about this issue, clear.

He said that Pakistan will protect its interests with regard to energy, which is very essential for the country.

"All the different phases of the gas pipeline agreement have been finalised and we wish that it should proceed forward," Qureshi said.

OneIndia News