950821

Disagreement over

framework stalls Iran,

India gas pipeline

ASHRAF KHAN

ISLAMABAD: Disagreement on the framework for the Indo-Iran gas pipeline via Pakistan, proposed by Islamabad, has created an impasse in the multi-billion dollars project, it is learnt.

According to reliable sources there is no response from Tehran so far on a communication specifying the conditional framework and modalities early last month.

Previously, when the framework was broached to a visiting Iranian delegation in June last, the response was negative and the framework was generally not acceptable. At that time, Pakistan had presented a framework to Iranian side as a pre-condition for undertaking feasibility work on the routes of the proposed pipeline. Sources said that the framework was discussed with the Iranain team which tentatively rejected the contents saying it will not be acceptable for the consultants appointed by India, or India itself.

However, they further asked for taking it up with concerned parties if Pakistan puts it in black and white. The framework was sent to Iran early last month but no response has been received as yet.

Sources said that according to the framework it was conveyed the Iranian side that the activities will not jeopardise Pakistan's economic and environmental interests in the area; Iran will first obtain Pakistan's agreement to the scope of work and terms of reference (TOR) of the feasibility study and it will provide the scope of work also for the off-shore and no-shore survey to Pakistan immediately; the work on both off and on-shores survey will be entrusted to the same consultants; work on both surveys will be undertaken simultaneously; the off-shore survey and the electronic equipment will be closely monitored by Pakistani experts at all time i.e. the presence of Pakistani personnel on the survey vessel will be ensured for the off-shore survey.

A Foreign Office official further revealed that Iran has proposed a tripartite meeting with Pakistan-Iran India, but taking a principle stance, Pakistan will never enter into dialogue with India. The official said Pakistan is playing a role of a co-ordinator so there is no need to hold such a meeting. However, consultants could approach Pakistani side in order to agree on the modalities of the overland pipeline route, the official clarified.

Sources said keeping in view the "delicacy" of the issue, the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Defence have taken up the issue and are closely co-ordinating with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources for reaching an amicable solution.

Pakistan and Iran had arrived at a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for laying gas pipeline from Iran to Pakistan. Through this pipeline, Pakistan will import about 1600 mmcf gas per day to meet shortfall of the fuel in future. Of late, Pakistan has given its consent to Iran for extending the proposed pipeline up to India.