India to test TAP as alternative to Iran 23.02.2006 NEW DELHI - India is ready to test the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan gas pipeline as an alternative to energy supply from Iran. The Times of India newspaper said Monday India is prepared to test the viability of a $3.5 billion TAP gas pipeline as an alternative to the $4 billion energy lifeline from Iran, currently subject to the political storm over Tehran's nuclear program. The news report said junior Indian Oil Minister Dinsha Patel would lead a delegation to the ninth meeting of the TAP steering committee this week in Turkmenistan's capital, Ashgabat. Afghanistan and Turkmenistan have long sought India's participation in the gas pipeline. New Delhi agreed to consider the offer last June. India is participating in the meeting to weigh the project's geopolitical, financial and technical aspects. Afghan President Hamid Karzai said India's participation in the TAP is vital for its viability. India agreed to participate after Karzai made a formal request to then-Oil Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar. India expressed concerns about the security of the gas pipeline, as it would pass through Afghanistan and Pakistan and be at risk from militant attacks. To allay these fears, New Delhi has asked the participants in the project to come up with two alternative plans to ensure the safety of the pipeline. << | >> |
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