ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Amanullah Khan Jadoon has said that Iran- Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline project is in the final stage of process and its expeditious implementation will not only prosper the entire region, but also help overcome growing energy needs of the countries in the region.

The minister was talking to the Ambassador of Iran, Mr Mashallah Shaheri, who paid a courtesy call on him and discussed with him matters pertaining to promotion of Pakistan-Iran cooperation in oil, gas and mineral sectors.

Mr Jadoon said both the countries were endowed with vast copper, coal, iron-ore and other mineral deposits and could benefit from each other’s experience for the mutual advantage.

He said the government would welcome the Iranian company’s participation in oil refinery, LPG, LNG, coal gasification projects, besides oil, gas and mineral exploration activities in a level-playing field to the investors in the country.