In the prevailing critical situation the news of implementation of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline truly comes as a breath of fresh air.

The long-pending project, if it is able to see the light of day, will significantly help in reducing the massive gas shortage which Pakistan faces today.

It would perhaps also help in rejuvenating the country’s industries which have almost come to a halt due to inadequate gas supply and revive industrial production. This undoubtedly will give the moribund economy of the country the boost that it direly needs. A question that however arises is will this project ever kick off. At least when looked at from the recent very bold standpoint of the incumbent government of Pakistan, it seems it will.

That the government of Pakistan has finally signed an agreement with the Iranian government vis-à-vis the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project reflects the seriousness of the two countries to go ahead and implement this extremely vital project without further delay.

When asked about US opposition to the project, President Zardari said Pakistan can make decisions independently and sign an agreement with any country to tackle its energy crisis. Let’s, for once, in the larger national interest stick to the stance we have taken on the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline.

M. FAZAL ELAHI                   Islamabad