Indian and Pakistani officials have begun working out details for building a $4 billion pipeline to carry Iranian natural gas to India through Pakistan.
Officials say the two-day talks in New Delhi are focusing on how to finance the almost 2800 kilometer pipeline, on its security, and on sharing the gas.
Iran proposed the project in the mid-1990s, but it stalled -- mainly because of India's concern that a large section of the pipeline would pass through its archrival, Pakistan. However relations have improved, and the two countries are engaged in a 19-month old peace process.
The United States has voiced its concern about the pipeline, saying New Delhi should look for alternative energy sources. Washington has no diplomatic relations with Tehran, and wants to keep international pressure on Iran over its nuclear program.
