A $.7.6 billion project for export of Iranian natural gas to Pakistan will remain unaffected by the imposition of fresh U.N. sanctions against Tehran, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

The Security Council approved a fourth round of sanctions against Iran on Wednesday.

UN vote came despite Turkey-Brazil efforts that yielded a nuclear swap deal with Iran.

Turkey and Brazil voted against it while Lebanon abstained. However, there were 12 votes in favor of the resolution.

Pakistan said the project for the construction of the gas pipeline from Iran was not covered by the U.N. curbs.

"This resolution or whatever sanctions or restrictions have been imposed are those related to the nuclear or ballistic missile programme of Iran," Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Abdul Basit told a news briefing.

"As far as our gas pipeline project is concerned, that is purely a commercial agreement and is beyond the purview of this resolution."

Basit reiterated Pakistan's call for a negotiated settlement of Iran's disputed nuclear programme.

"We will continue to encourage all parties concerned to re-engage and settle differences in the spirit of cooperation and accommodation."

Agencies