In a recent statement, the United States has raised concerns regarding the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project, signaling potential repercussions should Pakistan engage in commercial activities with Iran.
During a routine briefing, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the risks associated with business dealings with Iran, cautioning that such actions could result in sanctions. “We have consistently advised against engaging in business with Iran due to potential risks, including the possibility of facing sanctions. We urge all parties to carefully consider these warnings,” stated Miller. He also clarified that there is no guaranteed right to proceed with the pipeline project.
Referring to discussions with American envoy Donald Lowe for South and Central Asia, Miller highlighted similar sentiments conveyed to Congress in the previous week.
Meanwhile, Pakistan is exploring international legal avenues to overcome obstacles hindering the project’s progress. Reports suggest that Pakistan is seeking legal assistance to navigate potential exemptions from American sanctions, with the aim of ensuring completion of the project.
Miller also condemned the recent “terrorist” attack targeting Chinese citizens in Shangla of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding against such acts. Following the incident, where a suicide bomber targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers, resulting in the loss of six lives including five Chinese nationals, Miller extended condolences, stating, “We express our heartfelt sympathies.”
In response to the Shangla attack, Chinese authorities have urged Pakistan to conduct a thorough investigation, hold accountable those responsible, and implement concrete measures to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals. In light of this, Pakistani authorities have affirmed their commitment to conducting swift investigations into the incident.