Pakistan Dismisses US Interference in its Gas Deal With Iran

Hamsayeh.net

June 21, 2010 - In a clear sign of meddling and in an effort to thwart the Southeast Asian country’s progress, US special envoy to Pakistan warned Islamabad against its multi-billion dollar gas deal with Iran. 

Richard Halbrook cautioned Pakistan against implementing a $7.5 billion Peace Pipeline project, which would transport huge quantities of Iranian gas to Pakistan thus boosting the regions economy by a great margin. Halbrook’s comments run against Pakistani national interest and sovereignty showing American dispersion with any consequential projects that may change the balance of power in the region. 

The United States secretly draws major contracts with India while it keeps the Pakistani side constantly involved in civil, ethnic, terrorism and economic crisis for long periods. Also US aerial strikes on Pakistani civilians under the pretext of combating terrorism have made Pakistani public turn against US presence in their country.

On Sunday The US special envoy told reporters, ‘Pakistan should be wary of opting for gas deal with Iran, we warn Pakistan to wait for upcoming U.S. law against Iran.’ He added, ‘New sanctions on Iran can impact Pakistan and the US understands that Pakistan faces major energy crisis, but we warn Pakistan not to make progress on the project unless the US decision is formulated.’

Pakistani officials have dismissed US meddling by saying no amount of sanctions could hinder the gas deal with its historic, energy rich neighbor Iran. The proposed Peace Pipeline project would transfer more than 21 million cubic meters of natural gas to Pakistan via a 1000 km pipeline.