'IP' still facing intl. problems, claims Pakistan minister

EghtesadOnline: Pakistan Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has informed the parliament that Iran-Pakistan (IP) project is still confronting international problems.

News ID: ۷۷۱۸۲۱

30 November 2016

Briefing the lower house of the parliament, National Assembly, he said any progress on the project was not possible unless sanctions were completely lifted on Tehran.

He added the government made hectic efforts to move forward on the IP project but it was not possible till the complete lifting of international sanctions, IRNA reported.

Despite claims of the Pakistani petroleum minister, senior experts and diplomats of Pakistan who have enough information about the subject believe that the IP is most feasible and economical project for Pakistan.

Former Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Akram Zaki told IRNA that the IP is the most feasible project for Pakistan to overcome its energy crisis. “IP gas pipeline project is not an ordinary gas import project but a lifeline for Pakistan,” he said.

Pakistan’s Former Finance Minister and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance Salman Shah, talking to IRNA said that Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline is the most viable and economical project for Pakistan as compared to other energy projects including the TAPI.

Shortage of gas in Pakistan has caused not only economic problems, but also social problems in the country. Member of National Assembly Tahira Aurangzeb informed the parliament that severe gas shortage in the cold season was one of the leading causes behind the rising number of divorces in the country.