TEHRAN (IRNA) — Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki here on Monday said an expert group was still assessing implementation of the Iran-India-Pakistan gas pipeline, also called the `Peace Pipeline'.

During a meeting with a group of senior officials of the Pakistani mass media, he said that in constructive talks held between Iranian, Indian and Pakistani officials the three sides were all agreed on the importance of the project.

Due to Asia's growing need for energy, particularly to meet development projects in India and Pakistan, security of energy supply for the region is essential, he added.

The Iranian foreign minister further voiced Tehran's readiness to help step up the process of making the pipeline a reality.

"The Peace Pipeline will strengthen stability and security in the entire region," he said.

On Iran-U.S. relations, Mottaki said changes should be manifested not only in the words but also in the performance of U.S. officials.

"If that (change) takes place, we will consider taking action on various issues," he added.

Referring to Tehran-Islamabad ties, he said the two countries had great potential for further expansion in their wide-ranging relations. Mottaki termed the prospect of bilateral ties as "very bright."

Iranian and Pakistani authorities are seriously determined to bolster mutual cooperation in all areas, he said, and stressed that the mass media can play an effective role in this regard.