The TAPI project

The project is a tangible example of a fast-developing regional interdependence

Energy is one of the keys to all our futures in Pakistan. Power generation is via a range of diverse sources of varying cost-effectiveness. Gas is one of those, both the expensively imported variety and the indigenously produced gas from the Sui field — but more is needed. One of the largest projects of its kind was inaugurated on December 13 when Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif joined other leaders from the region to lay the foundation of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. Some moments truly are historic and this was one of them. This huge project — a 1,814-kilometre pipeline — should be completed by 2019, a date which may be optimistic but has implications far beyond the supply of gas.

The TAPI is a tangible example of a fast-developing regional interdependence and not only in terms of fulfilling the energy needs of Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Three states that do not enjoy the most harmonious of relationships are drawn together by a shared need, a need vital to the development of each which can only be fulfilled by acting in a collaborative manner. The prime minister was correct when he said that through projects such as TAPI the signatories “can join hands for pursuing a common goal of peace and prosperity in our region”. The TAPI project must be viewed in the context of a swing away from imported oil from the Gulf region and the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Although the two projects are separate, they are clearly complementary and will create a synergy that is a win-win for all. There are, however, pitfalls and security is perhaps the most significant one. The TAPI project crosses Afghanistan and Pakistan, the former deeply unstable and of uncertain future, the latter plagued by terrorist incidents and infested with militant groups that may find a gas pipeline easy pickings. Ensuring the security of those involved in the construction of the pipeline and then extending that security along its length once operational is going to be a challenge for all the signatories. The TAPI will mean a brighter future for all and we wish this project well.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 15^th, 2015.

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