The ongoing cooperation between Iran and Pakistan on the joint gas pipeline project inspite of US pressure to scuttle the deal is a healthy sign in the Islamic world. Some time back the prestigious Science journal of the USA had stated that the resurgence of science in the Islamic world would begin from Iran which was poised on the threshold of take off for a scientific revolution. As such the cooperation of Iran and Pakistan in the mega gas project is a good omen for future cooperation in the field of science and technology.
If the US and Israel can cooperate in scientific and defence research, why can’t Iran and Pakistan do the same backed by Iranian oil resources and Pakistani knowledge in science and technology spawned by Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan? Instead of begging the UK and US for sale of used military equipment, Pakistan and Iran could pool their resources to manufacture scientific and defence equipment to surge as a formidable force in the comity of nations. As two close neighbours it would be of further advantage to both having a synergistic relationship to further the prospects of peace and progress in the world.
DR MUHAMMAD YAQOOB BHATTI
Lahore
