IRNA – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani launched a major gas pipeline project in the Southeastern province of Sistan-Balouchestan.

The president attended the ground-breaking ceremony of Iranshahr-Zahedan gas pipeline project through video conference during his one-day official visit to the region.

The 262-kilometer-long project started in 2013 and is expected to provide domestic gas for all Zahedan residents till 2022.

A number of cabinet ministers and high-ranking officials accompanied the president.

President Rouhani also inaugurated the second runway of Zahedan International Airport at dimensions of 4,265-meter-long and 60-meter-long.

He launched a copper factory, 333 telecommunication projects and an 81-kilometer highway in the region.

The president departed Zahedan for the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, later on Tuesday, to attend the 13th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit.

President Rouhani visits Pakistan upon an official invitation of Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.