ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik on Tuesday informed the Senate that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a high-level committee to work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the Pak-Iran Gas Pipeline issue, balancing Pakistan’s potential financial liability arising from arbitration with its future energy requirements. Responding to a Calling Attention Notice raised by Senator Talha Mahmood, the minister stated that the committee is currently examining the legal, financial, and energy dimensions of the stalled project to secure a solution aligned with Pakistan’s national interest.

Diplomatic Engagement and Arbitration

Minister Malik emphasized that Iran remains a brotherly nation, and the leadership of both countries is actively engaged in efforts to reach an amicable settlement. Reflecting on past high-level diplomatic visits, such as the Field Marshal Asim Munir holds key meetings with Iranian President, senior leadership during Iran visit, the minister highlighted the importance of these bilateral dialogues. He noted that Iran has already achieved significant infrastructure progress on its side of the border, successfully transporting gas from the South Pars field to a major city near the Pakistani border.

Regarding the ongoing legal challenges, the minister confirmed that the matter is currently in arbitration in Paris. Consequently, the government is prioritizing a negotiated settlement to avoid the risks associated with prolonged international litigation. The high-level committee is evaluating the potential financial exposure of the state while factoring in the nation’s long-term energy security.

Focus on Balochistan Development

Addressing specific concerns regarding gas supply and infrastructure in Balochistan, Minister Malik announced that Prime Minister Sharif has directed him to maintain proactive engagement with provincial stakeholders. He noted that a separate high-level committee, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is currently overseeing the resolution of technical and payment-related grievances specific to the province. This approach reflects a broader government strategy, similar to recent efforts seen in other sectors, such as when PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomed a Qatari delegation to strengthen economic ties, ensuring that internal energy stability remains a top priority.