This meeting is expected to be decisive in co-ordinating a large-scale four-party deal, and to end in the signing of a protocol of intent and a frame agreement on terms of the construction of the gas pipeline. The partners will then begin to consider the project's feasibility study and define its general structure, its financing, and other investments. The project to construct the gas pipeline between Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India is being supported by the Asian Bank of Development. The bank also actively contributes to India's joining the project as one of interested participants. Observers stress that in comparison with the Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline project, the conclusion of which has repeatedly been delayed, TAPI seems to be economically more attractive and advantageous for India. According to preliminary plans, India will be able to receive 40m cum/d of gas through the TAPI pipeline during the first four years, and 31m cum/d during the next 26 years. The IPI pipeline plans provide for less gas at 30m cum/d. It is also felt that Indian consumers might be happier receiving gas from Central Asian than from Iran.