Islamabad fully capable to handle pipeline security

Pakistan on Saturday said it could effectively handle the security of proposed gas pipeline from Iran to India via its territory. Talking to Iran''s news agency IRNA here, Federal Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources Amanullah Jadoon made it clear Islamabad was fully capable of effectively handling the gas pipeline''s security.
He said the government for decades was looking after 6,000-kilometer domestic pipeline network that provided gas to the country''s various parts.
"We like India are in need of gas and we know how to take care of inter-state projects. We are committed to its security," Jadoon maintained.
Iran, Pakistan and India are closing in on finalisation of details on the construction of a multi-billion 2,670-kilometer long gas pipeline.
No tangible progress could be made earlier on the proposal, surfaced in the mid-90s, mainly due to Pak-India tensions on Kashmir problem.
However, since February last year, both countries launched a composite dialogue to settle their long-standing issues, including Kashmir.
This environment based on a number of confidence-building measures paved way for a significant heady towards finalisation of details on the project among three countries.
Jadoon made this comment when his attention was drawn towards a press report, alleging India was playing up security concerns regarding gas pipeline to dictate terms vis-à-vis its pricing.
The minister rejected the report saying talks with India were smoothly progressing and there was nothing to worry about. "We are satisfied on talks with India and there is no problem or deadlock as such," he added.
He parried a question about possibility of providing international security guarantee on the proposed project, which experts say had potential to trigger greater economic activity in the region.
Jadoon said natural disruptions or occasional mishap could happen any time anywhere, adding however, there was nothing to be concerned about the security of proposed gas pipeline.
The minister cautioned concerned parties against certain elements trying to create confusion about the project that had a win-win position for all the three parties.