Peace pipeline favored over U.S. objection

WASHINGTON, June 18 (UPI) -- The 1,724-mile Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline provides an economic boost to U.S. allies India and Pakistan, though Iranian involvement concerns Washington.

The land-based pipeline will deliver natural gas to markets in India and Pakistan from the South Pars gas fields in Iran. Despite economic benefits for India and Pakistan, however, the United States says the project would diminish Washington's influence over the Islamic Republic, Voice of America said Wednesday.

India, as the world's sixth-largest energy consumer, favors the deal with Iran, a top energy exporter. Pakistan, meanwhile, is eager to sign onto the plan because it would mean roughly $1 billion in profits from transit fees for Islamabad.

"Everything we do with Iran is open, above board and quite clear to everybody. Frankly, from our point of view, the more engagement there is, the more Iran becomes a factor of stability in the region, the better it is for us all," said Indian Foreign Secretary Shiv Shankar Menon.

Pakistani journalist Khalid Hasan echoed the sentiments, saying Washington should avoid meddling in the deal because it strengthens the relationship between India and Pakistan.

"The fact is that this pipeline suits Iran, it suits Pakistan, it suits India," he said. "So, I think the national interests of all three countries will override any objections the U.S. might have."