He said the project for export of gas to Pakistan has been stopped for collection of reasons, including sanctions and financial shortage required for pipeline laying.

"When ready to receive gas, Iran will be capable of exporting gas to Pakistan," he added.

As for export of gas to the Persian Gulf states, Araqi said the project is among strategic plans of the National Iranian gas company (NIGC) and should be implemented definitely.

He said export of gas to the neighbors through pipeline and export to far distance through LNG is on the Petroleum Ministry agenda.

"We should enter the LNG market and acquire the technology fully," said Araqi.

He then commented on export of gas to Iraq and said maximum 20 billion cubic meters gas will be exported to Baghdad and Basra annually.