Dr Asim welcomes Russian interest in TAPI

ISLAMABAD: Dr. Asim Hussain, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Petroleum & Natural Resources welcomed the interest shown by Russian Federation in TAPI (Trans-Afghanistan Pipeline) and Iran Pakistan pipeline projects, and expressed confidence over the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan & Russian Federation.

He said this while meeting the twelve (12) member Russian delegation headed by Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Y.P. Sentyurin, who called on the Advisor here Thursday.

Mr. Ejaz Chaudhry Secretary Petroleum & Natural Resources, and senior officers of the Ministry were also present on the occasion. Secretary Petroleum, briefed the delegation on latest position of TAPI and IP pipeline projects, and emphasized on expanding the bilateral treaty framework of cooperation in oil and gas sector.

The delegation was informed that the Ministry had extensively worked on Shale and Tight Gas policies that would be of interest to the Russian Government.

Dr. Asim Hussain stated that Pakistan's approach towards meeting Energy requirements is of urgent nature and completion of mega gas projects including TAPI & IP is top priority. He further said that the in-principle decision of Russian Federation regarding cooperation in TAPI and IP projects is highly appreciated.

It was agreed between the two sides that details of the two mega gas projects would be shared immediately and financial modalities would remain negotiable.

Representatives of Russian companies including Gazprom EP and PJSC Stroytransgaz also briefed the Advisor to the Prime Minister on possible expertise that could be provided for the TAPI & IP projects.

It may be recalled that the twelve members Russian delegation is visiting Pakistan in connection with Second Meeting of the Russian Pakistani Joint Working Group on Energy Cooperation that is being held in Pakistan. (PPI)