UNITED NATIONS, July 22: Pakistan government has assured the United Nations it will provide all the money needed for an investigation into the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, well-informed sources here told Dawn.

The assurance was conveyed by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a meeting with the UN officials on July 10.

According to the sources, the investigation could cost Pakistan in excess of $100 million and take up to 14 months to complete.

A probe commission would report to both the government of Pakistan and the UN secretary-general. Pakistan has not asked for involvement of UN Security Council in the investigation.

“There is no need to refer the request to the Security Council,” Mr Qureshi told reporters here after his meting with UN officials.

An investigation sought by the UN Security Council would have been funded by the world body. The investigation of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Harriri murder has so far cost $350 million.

Besides, an investigation ordered by the UN Security Council would have been more intense and intrusive.