Pak-Iran agree to expedite power import projects

Pakistan and Iran have agreed to expedite finalisation of the power tariff to speed up import of three power projects to enhance bilateral trade in the energy sector. Ambassador of Iran Ali Reza Highighlian called on the Minister for Water and Power Syed Naveed Qamar and discussed various matters of bilateral cooperation. At present three projects of importing electricity from Iran for Balochistan province are under negotiation between the two countries. Both sides have agreed to enhance the current import of 35 MW to 70 MW, which is likely to be commissioned during the current month. The two countries have also signed agreement to import 100 MW. The project is ready for ground breaking but the delay in the finalization of performance guarantee was delaying the project. Both the countries are also discussing import of 1000 MW power project, which would be used in the Balochistan province. All issues have been finalized except tariff which is under advance negotiation stage. The minister said that all the three projects will help resolving electricity crises. He said Pakistan is also encouraging Iranian investors to invest in infrastructure projects. He said cooperation in various fields of economy will further enhance bilateral relations. Iranian envoy said Iran gives importance to its relations with Pakistan and was keen to invest in various projects. He stressed early completion of the power import projects. He said that various new projects will be finalized during the visit of Iranian President to Pakistan which will enhance the economic ties between the two countries. Ambassador of Tajikistan Zubaidullu Zabaidov also called on the Minister for Water and Power. The minister said Pakistan is moving forward on import of 1000 MW from Central Asia and soon a video conference of power ministers of Pakistan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan will be held to expedite the project. Tajik ambassador stressed the need for direct flights from Pakistan to Tajikistan to boost bilateral trade and tourism between the two countries. He also invited the Minister to participate in the Regional Economic Conference for Afghanistan to be held next month.