Pakistan’s Traders Welcome Iran-5+1 Deal

Islamabad, Nov 25, IRNA - The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has welcomed the historic Iran-5+1 deal on Tehran’s nuclear program, terming it an important factor in stability and prosperity of the region and entire world. Tehran’s game-changing deal with world powers has allayed the fears of a wider war and may pave the way for diplomatic relation between Iran and the US broke off following the victory of the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the subsequent storming of the US embassy, said Zubair Ahmed Malik, FPCCI President. In a statement issued on Monday, he said that it is a great confidence-building step towards reducing decades of tension and finding a comprehensive solution to the dispute which is a diplomatic victory for all the stakeholders. Malik said that the deal will have a very positive impact on Pakistan’s economy as US can stop opposing Iran gas pipeline which will help Islamabad trim down the looming energy crisis which has compromised growth. He regretted that the neighboring Iran, a major oil and gas producer, has remained hardly pressed by sanctions. Pakistan is already under “contractual obligations” to complete Iran gas pipeline project while the development will pave the way for massive western investment in the project which can help rapid completion, he noted. The FPCCI chief asked the government to waste no time in completing the pipeline which is lifeline for the Pakistan’s economy. Additionally, India must be invited again to become part of the project as it will bring Pakistan and New Delhi closer and Islamabad would also earn handsome transit fee./end