India and Iran decided on Saturday to go ahead with the proposed $7.4 billion gas pipeline through Pakistan, ignoring both US pressure to scuttle the project as well as the looming threat of UN sanctions against Tehran.‘‘There can be a tripartite meeting of the concerned ministers to finalise a framework agreement by December 31,’’ External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh said after talks with Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki.In another major deal, Singh said Tehran had agreed to supply five million metric tonnes of liquid natural gas to India every year.On the nuclear issue, Singh said ‘‘We support Iran’s pursuit of its peaceful nuclear energy programme in keeping with its international obligations and commitments.’’Declining to share the details of his hour-long discussions with Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani, the minister said, ‘‘We believe all sides should take steps to facilitate dialogue and resolve outstanding issues within the framework’’ of the International Atomic Energy Agency.Later, External Affairs spokesperson Navtej Sarna said that issues relating to transit routes to central Asia and the India-assisted upgradation of Iran’s Chhabbrar seaport also figured during discussions.The Iranian Foreign Minister has conveyed an invitation through Sing to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit Iran, and Sarna said there was ‘‘a likelihood of an early visit’’. —PTI
