Govt forms high-powered body to break deadlock over Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline amid penalty threats

Facing looming penalties of millions of dollars, Pakistan's government has established a high-powered committee to break a two-decade deadlock over the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced the formation of the committee, stating that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif tasked it with finding a mutually acceptable solution. The committee will scrutinize the project's legal, financial, and energy dimensions. Its mandate is to recommend a path forward that serves Pakistan's national interest, particularly as the country grapples with escalating energy demands. Senator Talha Mahmood highlighted the project's long delay, noting Iran has completed its section of the pipeline up to the Pakistani border. He questioned Pakistan's readiness to integrate Iranian gas and the progress on its side, asking how quickly the pipeline could become operational once sanctions are lifted. The government's move signals an effort to address the critical energy infrastructure issue while navigating potential financial repercussions.

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in Pakistan’s national interest