This marked considerable progress in the Pak-Iran gas pipeline project.

The approval comes as Pakistan has scrambled to avoid a staggering 18-billion-dollar fine, with the government authorizing the commencement of long-awaited work on the initial 80-kilometer phase within its borders.

Analysts say the project will improve Pakistan’s energy security and support regional industries by providing stable and enhanced gas supplies.

Iran has extended the project deadline by 180 days until September 2024 so as to avoid a legal dispute with Pakistan at international tribunals.

The project, launched in 2013, had initially required Pakistan to finish the construction of the pipeline on its territory by the end of 2014.

However, the project faced prolonged delays due to the potential challenges it posed for Pakistan amid international sanctions targeting Iran.

The delay has upset Iran, which has already invested $2 billion in the pipeline on its side of the border having completed its section of the pipeline.

Pakistan had also expressed its commitment to constructing an 800-kilometer pipeline to the Iranian border by the end of 2014.

However, Islamabad couldn’t fulfill its end of the bargain amid US pressure and under threat of sanctions.

MP/PressTV