The UN Security Council imposed a fourth round of sanctions on Iran on Wednesday over its nuclear program that the West suspects is aimed at developing atomic weapons. Iran denies any such ambitions.

Pakistan said the much-delayed project for the construction of the gas pipeline from Iran was not covered by the UN curbs.

"This resolution or whatever sanctions or restrictions have been imposed are those related to the nuclear or ballistic missile program of Iran," Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Abdul Basit told a news briefing.

"As far as our gas pipeline project is concerned, that is purely a commercial agreement and is beyond the purview of this resolution."

The proposed pipeline, which is expected to be completed by 2015, originally would have been extended from Pakistan to its old rival India. However, India has been reluctant to joint the project given its long-running distrust with Pakistan.

The United States tried to discourage India and Pakistan from proceeding with the project but Pakistani officials say the proposed pipeline is crucial to avert a growing energy crisis already causing severe electricity shortages in the country of 170 million. Iranian officials hope to finalize the deal this week.

Pakistan is a key ally in the US-led war against Al-Qaeda and Taleban and faces a tricky balancing act as it tries to keep strategic ties with the United States while maintaining good relations with its neighbor and fellow Muslim nation.

Basit reiterated Pakistan's call for a "negotiated" settlement of Iran's disputed nuclear program.

"We will continue to encourage all parties concerned to reengage and settle differences in the spirit of cooperation and accommodation."