Wednesday, July 13 2005 14:11 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington: A resolution would soon be introduced in the US Congress seeking Washington's support for the proposed Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project.

Democratic Congressman Jim McDermott is sponsoring the resolution and the move assumes significance in the backdrop of US sanctions against Iran.

Bridging Nations, a leading Washington-based think tank described the proposed resolution as 'historic'.

Representative McDermott's 'Bridging Nations' legislation recognizes that economic cooperation is a solution far better than confrontation.

"This initiative would not only ensure energy security but also be a great source of collaboration and economic cooperation between India and Pakistan and enhance the national security of the United States," it said.

India and Pakistan will discuss today (July 12, 2005) financing of the 4.1-billion dollar gas pipeline project, the transit fee that Islamabad will charge for allowing the passage of the pipeline and security issues.

Last week, Pakistan and Iran had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the 2600-km project.