Pak won't violate international laws if US sanctions on Iran hits gas line project: Qureshi

Islamabad, June 21 (ANI): Following the US' advice not to 'over commit' itself over the proposed gas pipeline with Iran, Pakistan has said it is committed to adhere to international laws if the said project falls under the ambit of anticipated American sanctions on Tehran.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters here that he hopes that the gas pipeline project, known as the IP project, would not be affected by the US sanctions.

"Energy is the need of the country and the gas pipeline project should remain intact unless it fell in the ambit of the US restrictions," The Daily Times quoted Qureshi, as saying.

Qureshi, however, added that Islamabad would protect its interests with regard to its energy needs.

Earlier, President Obama's Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan warned Islamabad that the anticipated US sanctions on Iran could hit the gas line.

"Pakistan has an obvious, major energy problem and we are sympathetic to that, but in regards to a specific project, legislation is being prepared that may apply to the project," Holbrooke had said during a joint press conference with Qureshi.

"We caution the Pakistanis not to over-commit themselves until we know the legislation, and that it should wait and see," Holbrooke said. (ANI)