In an interview published today in the "Financial Times," Musharraf says Pakistan needs the gas for its economic development, and no country has the right to tell Pakistan not to proceed with the project.
However, Musharraf is also quoted as suggesting that the United States might compensate Pakistan for not going forward with the deal.
The project is envisaged carrying gas from Iran to Pakistan and also on to India. Its cost has been estimated at more than $7 billion.
The United States and the European Union are seeking to isolate the Iranian government over Tehran's continuing nuclear program, which they fear is aimed at developing nuclear weapons.
(with additional agency reports)
