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."
