Iranian Government Outlines Policy Progress: From Economic Stimulus to Energy Security
In a comprehensive weekly press briefing, the Iranian government’s spokesperson, Fatemeh Mahagerani, detailed significant advancements across several key policy areas, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to economic development, regional cooperation, and technological self-sufficiency.
Economic Development and Job Creation
Mahagerani announced the signing of a major 35,000 billion Rial memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting employment in underprivileged regions. This initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and the Mostazafan Foundation, is designed to create sustainable jobs by supporting 17,500 production projects, which are expected to generate 26,000 new employment opportunities.
Strengthening Regional Ties
Highlighting Iran’s active foreign policy, the spokesperson noted the President’s participation in a recent ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization) ministerial meeting. She described the summit as a testament to the renewed will of member states to enhance cooperation. “The emphasis of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran on an ECO police force to help secure the safe exchange of products provides a suitable framework,” Mahagerani stated, expressing hope that this previously overlooked area would yield positive results for regional security and trade.
Clarification on Marriage Loan Policy
Addressing public speculation, the spokesperson provided a clear clarification on social support policies. “Contrary to some interpretations, the ‘GAM card’ does not replace the marriage loan,” Mahagerani asserted. She confirmed that both systems will remain in place, each serving its own purpose, and that the popular marriage loan program will not be eliminated.
Advances in Technology and Energy
Showcasing national achievements in science and technology, Mahagerani pointed to a recent exhibition on nanotechnology. “1,735 Iranian nano-products were presented,” she reported, adding that decades of investment, totaling nearly 800 billion Tomans, have culminated in a current annual turnover of 65 Hamt (a unit equivalent to 1,000 billion Rials). The sector has also become a source of national pride with exports worth $183 million to 63 countries.
On the energy front, the government is pushing forward with its clean energy agenda. The spokesperson announced the inauguration of a 112-megawatt solar power plant, part of a broader plan to produce 30,000 megawatts of renewable energy. “The government has committed to taking serious steps towards clean energy,” she said, noting that 7,000 megawatts have been targeted for the first year to help address power grid imbalances through optimization and the expansion of solar facilities.
National Call for Water Conservation
Concluding with an urgent appeal, Mahagerani addressed the ongoing dry season. “We are experiencing a dry autumn, and for Tehran and provinces facing water stress, such as the central provinces, especially Isfahan, we have no choice but to conserve water.” While the government is implementing water recycling projects, she emphasized that public cooperation in saving water is essential to navigating this challenge successfully.