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Gas pipeline in country's interest: Qureshi
MULTAN: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Sunday energy is the need of country and Pak-Iran gas pipeline agreement should remain intact as it is in the best interest of the country.Talking to journalists here at local airport, he said that our experts hoped that Pak-Iran gas pipeline accord would not affect by the sanctions imposed on Iran. Similarly, the US strategic team did not know about it that whether it comes under restrictions or not. He, however, added if it falls in the restrictions then country will not violate international laws.
The minister said that Pakistan would protect its interests with regard to energy, which is the requirement of the country. He, however, added that it would be premature to give final opinion at this stage.
The FM disclosed that all the different phases of the gas pipeline agreement have been finalised and we wished that it should proceed forward.
He said the strategic dialogues are in progress as seven phases out of 11 have occurred. He said we have engaged different sectors (including finance ministry, defence etc) in the strategic dialogues process.
The foreign minister said Pakistan was getting aid under Kerry-Luger bill and added that major portion of the aid was being utilised on social sector including health, education and empowerment of women.
Shah Mehmood said KL Bill was introduced for the period of five years and we were engaged to expand the cooperation for long period even after the five years of the assistance programme. He disclosed that a dossier, in this connection, would be sent to Secretary of State who will visit Pakistan during July next.
About resumption of dialogues with India, he acknowledged that there exists trust deficit between both countries.
He said both the countries have to bridge the trust deficit and will have to move step by step in this regard.
To a question, he said, we also have reservation about the activities of our neighbour but we are heading forward through diplomatic channels.
The foreign minister said, we have succeeded to convince Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in Thimphu meetings that dialogue was the only way forward.
Shah Mehmood Qureshi said there were some issues (including water, terrorism etc) pending between two countries, which require settlement.
He added we should not be defensive regarding the issue pertaining to terrorism as our own country is victim of terrorism.
He said that the country want meaningful and result-oriented dialogues with India.
About students studying in Kyrgystan, the government would ensure steps to safeguard their future.
To a query about students stranded in Beshkek, the FM said there was a peaceful environment in Beshkek and is no harm to our students. He thanked Kargyz government for offering special cooperation towards Pakistan.
About inauguration of new terminal at Multan airport, he said the development would open an era of prosperity in the region as it would boost trade especially export of mango.
Courtesy www.Geo.tv