October 21, 2003	Tuesday	Sha'aban 24, 1424

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ISLAMABAD, Oct 20: Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali called on President Pervez Musharraf here on Monday and discussed with him various issues including the prime minister’s forthcoming visit to Iran and the prevailing political situation in the country.

President Musharraf expressed the hope that the prime minister’s three-day visit would further strengthen brotherly ties between the two countries, an official announcement said.

Prime Minister Jamali is visiting Iran on the invitation of Iranian President Seyed Mohammad Khatami. The prime minister would leave on Tuesday and would be accompanied by Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Humayun Akhtar, Nourez Shakoor and other senior officials.

It is expected that Pakistan will take up the matter of gas import from Iran. At present, three studies are being prepared on the proposed gas pipeline from Iran to India via Pakistan.

India has shown reservations on laying of pipeline through Pakistan and has engaged companies for making feasibility reports on deep-sea, shallow waters and offshore pipeline.

Pakistan officials believe that even if India backs out of the gas pipeline deal because of political reasons, Pakistan should go ahead with the plan as importing gas from Iran would be more economical as compared to its import from Qatar.

During his stay, the prime minister will hold talks with President Khatami. He will also meet Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei. The prime minister will also call on former Iranian president and Chairman of the Expediency Council Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani.