Pakistan to also talk about trade, regional security, Afghanistan peace. PHOTO: FILE
ISLAMABAD: With the Iran nuclear deal offering new opportunities for Pakistan, a delegation of parliamentarians will visit Tehran next month to discuss resuming the gas pipeline project.
Around six lawmakers from the Senate and National Assembly will be meeting the top leadership of Iran to discuss trade, regional security challenges, peace in Afghanistan and the way forward for resuming the Pak-Iran gas pipeline project.
“Lifting of sanctions on Iran is a win-win situation for Pakistan as well,” said Awais Leghari, chairman of the NA Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. “We should proceed with big trade plans with Tehran.”
Leghari said the delegation would leave for Iran on October 3. “It’s an important trip. With a wide-ranging agenda, from business to regional security, we have an open heart and mind, and will discuss all the issues.”
The delegation will focus on top Iranian exports like crude oil, gas and refined oil by exploring how “Pakistan and Iran could form a natural partnership”.
The delegation will also comprise members of the foreign affairs committees of both houses of parliament, and they would discuss the law and order situation on the Taftan border.
Leghari said: “We want resumption of trade between the two neighbours. Our visit will pave the way for reviving pacts related to trade, energy and security.”
The delegation would also discuss with the Iranian officials the issue of ongoing militancy in Balochistan, he added.
A few members of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs would also be a part of the delegation.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 25th, 2015.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ