The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline is an important step towards resolving our energy crisis.
QUETTA: The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline is an important step towards resolving our energy crisis. It is a new chapter in the history of bilateral relations of the two countries. This will not only help us meet our energy shortage, but also boost ties between the two nations. By promoting increased integration in the region, the countries will be better placed to fight terrorism and extremism. While international pressure — particularly American — against the gas pipeline project exists, we must protect our national interests first. When the common citizens of Pakistan face the scourge of power cuts, our exports and production decline, the value of rupee deteriorates, and unemployment and poverty keep rising, the Americans do not come to our rescue. They do not have to experience the pains and miseries caused by the energy crisis.
Another thing to note is that the India-US civil nuclear energy deal is against the interests of Pakistan and America has never done anything to assuage the concerns of Pakistan. It has not promised to provide us with a similar deal. If it does not take care of our interests, we should also not be bothered about its interests. We have already sacrificed more than enough for the vested interests of the US in the war on terror, yet we are conceived by it with mistrust. Furthermore, Iran is our neighbour and one cannot change one’s neighbours. However, the US presence in the region hinges on its self-interests.
Adnan Arshad
Published in The Express Tribune, March 16th, 2013.
