15 January 2004	Thursday	22 Ziqa'ad 1424

ISLAMABAD, Jan 14: Iran said on Wednesday that no foreign scientist helped in its nuclear programme and only a few individuals arranged supply of some equipment from the international open market for its programme.

"No scientist from any other country has helped in this regard," visiting Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran Mohsin Aminzadeh said when asked about the alleged cooperation by some Pakistani scientists in Iran's nuclear programme.

Talking to reporters after his official engagements in Islamabad, he said it was through the efforts of Iranian scientists and technicians that "we were able to achieve some progress in Iran."

Referring to Iran's talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr Aminzadeh said they were only told about five individuals - three Europeans and two people from this region - who helped Iran buy some instrument and equipment required for its nuclear programme from the international open market.

About the two people from this region, he said they were acting as brokers and were businessmen. Mr Aminzadeh said he did not have an exact information about the origin of these individuals who, he said, could be from two different countries.

The Iranian minister expressed his utter surprise at reports about the alleged Pakistan-Iran cooperation, terming them fabrication by media. To a question, he said it's a normal business practice to procure equipment from anywhere in the world. Iran did not contravene the norms, he added.

GAS PIPELINE PROJECT: When asked about the prospects of the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project he said the project, if pursued, would bring in huge economic and monetary benefits for the countries of the region.

He said either Pakistan could use the gas for its requirements or it may receive income from its transit through Pakistan.

"We are hopeful that due to the positive impact of Saarc conference this issue will be now taken more seriously by the two sides." He said Iran had noted with satisfaction that the Pakistani and Indian Prime Ministers during their meeting took up the issue. "This is indicative of the hopes attached to this project and we are seriously following new developments," he added.

Mr Aminzadeh welcomed the move between Pakistan and India to resume dialogue to settle all outstanding disputes. "We are hopeful that this new climate will be conducive for the two countries and the Kashmir issue will also be resolved through peaceful means."

About Pakistan-Iran cooperation he said Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali and First Vice President of Iran will supervise the talks and the agreements of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC).

"We are hopeful that with this formula we will be engaging the entire cabinet of Pakistan and Iran into the issues and agenda of the Joint Ministerial Commission."-APP