TEHRAN Dec 14 (Shana): An Iranian deputy petroleum minister warned on Saturday that Pakistan will face cash fines in case of foot-dragging on the construction of its side of the gas pipeline extending from Iran. Pakistan must accelerate the construction of the gas pipeline for importing gas from Iran on its soil, Ali Majedi, deputy minister for international affairs and trading, said.
He dismissed pretexts by Pakistani officials that sanctions against Iran are hampering the construction of the Pakistani side of the project.
Such remarks are unacceptable and Pakistan is expected to meet its obligations in this contract, said Majedi.
Iran reserves its right to demand fine from Pakistan for delaying the project, he said, adding that the deadline for the completion of the pipeline is December 2014.
Majedi said some oil companies have voiced willingness to build the Pakistani side of the pipeline.