PPP Leader Saleem Mandviwala Discusses Challenges in Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline and Trade Relations

In a press conference held in Quetta, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader and Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, Saleem Mandviwala, addressed key issues surrounding the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project and trade relations with Iran and Afghanistan. Mandviwala stated that the main obstacle to the completion of the gas pipeline is the international economic sanctions imposed on Iran. He assured that talks regarding the pipeline are still ongoing, emphasizing that the project is intended for the benefit of ordinary Pakistanis and not for security purposes.

During the press briefing, which was also attended by Commerce Committee Chairperson Anousha Rahman, Mandviwala highlighted the importance of resolving trade-related issues between Iran and Afghanistan. He revealed that Pakistan has been facing trade-related challenges with Iran and Afghanistan for the past six months, particularly in Islamabad, and thus decided to visit Quetta to address these concerns. He also noted that they engaged with the provincial government and local traders to find solutions.

Mandviwala further discussed the broader issues facing Balochistan, including law and order, and stressed the importance of addressing these challenges for the province’s development. He called on the federal government to take responsibility for resolving the region’s issues, asserting that Balochistan deserves equal attention and development as other provinces. He also stressed that the perception of neglect in the province must be eliminated.

In his closing remarks, Mandviwala underscored the need for collaborative efforts to resolve the grievances of Balochistan’s people. He emphasized that failing to address these concerns would be seen as a failure in fulfilling the promises of equitable development for the region.