Pakistan Will Not Succumb to Pressure on Iran Gas Pipeline, Foreign Minister Says

Pakistan is committed to completing the Iran gas pipeline despite the risk of U.S. sanctions. The project, intended to deliver 750 million to 1,000 million cubic feet of gas daily from Iran’s South Pars Field, has faced delays due to U.S. opposition tied to Iran’s nuclear program. The Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement was signed in 2009, with Iran completing its portion by 2011, while Pakistan’s side remains unfinished. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan’s need for affordable energy amid severe shortages, rejecting external pressures to abandon the pipeline. The Biden administration and Saudi Arabia, a key financial supporter, oppose the project, complicating Pakistan’s efforts to balance its energy needs with international relations.