London: The on-again, off-again Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline is set to experience another twist with Indian petroleum minister, Murli Deora, now expressing optimism about a successful resolution to the project. After starting off as a threesome along with India, Iran and Pakistan had lately adopted a bilateral approach to the project leaving India out in the cold.

Given the constantly fluctuating geo-political situation in the region, India too appeared content to let both these countries move ahead without its participation.

Minister Deora said Wednesday that he was optimistic about the 2,775km pipeline, and also, that India was deeply committed to the multi-billion dollar project. "Iranian Ambassador to India spoke to me on Tuesday and they are very keen that the project takes shape as it is in the interest of all three countries," Deora said.

Asked whether he would be visiting Teheran, Deora said, "I have received an invitation" and indicated that he might make a trip at an appropriate time.

While admitting that India could not participate in a couple of meetings because of the local situation, Deora said, "India is deeply committed to the pipeline project. We hope it will go through. Iran is very keen we should go ahead."

As for US pressure on India to keep away from the project, the minister denied there was any. "I have not seen any pressure and we have to take care of our energy needs," he said.

Apparently, matters between India and Pakistan on the IPI gas pipeline are stuck on the issue of transit fees to be paid by India to Pakistan.

For the moment it appears that the Iranian's have come around seeking India's participation in the project. It will not be the first time such flip-flops have occurred, and given the track record of this project it will not surprise many if some more should occur.