'Iran's gas to reach Europe via Turkey'

TEHRAN, Nov. 26(MNA)--Managing director of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) said Ankara has given Iran the permission to export its natural gas to Europe through Turkey's soil. Javad Oji, however, noted that consultations for exporting Iran's gas via Turkey are still underway and the decision will be finalized after relevant contracts are signed. Refuting reports that Pakistan has cancelled its contract for importing Iran's gas, the Iranian official said Iran's contract with Pakistan will become effective as of 2014 and Pakistan has asked for an increase in the amount of gas to exported to the Asian country. The official stated that 12 million cubic meters (cu. m.) per day of sweet gas has been injected into the Iranian oil fields for the first time during the current year, showing a 24-percent rise compared to last year. Iran ranks second in the world in natural gas reserves after Russia with available gas reserves estimated at over 33 trillion cubic meters. In addition to exporting gas to Turkey, Armenia, and Pakistan, the country is currently negotiating gas exports to Iraq.