Pezeshkian places premium on comprehensive development plan for Makoran
President underscores AI, advanced techs in strategic decision-makings
President Masoud Pezeshkian stressed the importance of adhering to a comprehensive development plan for the Makoran region, ensuring that all actions align with the already-outlined strategy.
He emphasized that the strategic region’s infrastructure should not be based on past standards but should be designed to meet the needs of the next several decades, according to president.ir.
Speaking during a meeting on the ‘blue economy’ on Monday, Pezeshkian highlighted the necessity of following the Makoran development plan in all sectors, including industrial growth, transportation networks such as railways, highways, airports, and urban planning.
He warned against actions that might require future demolition and reconstruction, urging that all projects should be executed with long-term sustainability.
Addressing the reluctance of contractors and experts to settle in Makoran, the president noted that without adequate residential facilities, it is unrealistic to expect workers to relocate with their families.
He called for the construction of high-quality residential complexes equipped with modern amenities to attract professionals and contractors to the region. He criticized the lack of foresight in some projects, emphasizing the need to plan for the next several decades rather than focusing solely on immediate needs.
Pezeshkian also pointed to the interest of foreign investors in Makoran’s projects, suggesting the formation of a working group to address their proposals and remove obstacles and urged officials to report any issues faced by investors for timely resolution.
The president underscored the importance of environmental standards in Makoran’s development, advocating for cities to be built with modern transportation systems, and eco-friendly designs to prevent issues like air pollution and emphasized the need for solar power plants and clean energy production in the region.
Responding to concerns about governance challenges in attracting foreign investment, Pezeshkian assured that the government is working to remove administrative and governance-related obstacles.
He also encouraged reporting any issues for prompt resolution.
Pezeshkian stressed the importance of involving the local community in Makoran’s development, suggesting that priority in education and employment should be given to local residents.
He highlighted the region’s growth potential, noting interest from Central Asian countries in utilizing Makoran’s ports.
He proposed creating facilities like storage warehouses to encourage their participation in the region’s development.
The president also acknowledged the historical trade expertise of local merchants in Sistan and Baluchestan, suggesting their involvement in exports and overcoming trade barriers.
He emphasized the need to address the demands of local communities, particularly in fishing and trade, to ensure development improves their quality of life.
Pezeshkian called for innovative educational approaches in remote areas, including the use of high-quality remote learning packages to supplement local teaching.
Importance of AI, advanced technologies
Meanwhile, during a meeting of the Strategic Council for Technology and Knowledge-Based Production on Monday, Pezeshkian emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies.
He stressed the importance of understanding Iran’s current position and learning from the experiences of developed countries to address gaps and challenges.
Pezeshkian described a global perspective on emerging technologies as essential for prioritizing actions that align with global trends and national needs. He noted that such an approach would enable Iran to meet domestic demands, produce globally competitive products, and market them internationally.
The president highlighted the potential of AI to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve service delivery, particularly in healthcare.
He suggested that AI could streamline patient care, reduce the need for specialists in underserved areas, and enhance service quality as the top official called for prioritizing AI in the agenda of the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology.
Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of prioritizing resources to address unlimited demands, suggesting a scientific and practical approach to decision-making.
He also stressed the role of knowledge-based companies in solving national challenges, including energy imbalances, and noted plans to generate 30,000 megawatts of solar power within a year with their participation.
The meeting included reports on joint programs between the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology and the Ministry of Health to develop and localize strategic health technologies.
Additionally, Minister of Oil Mohsen Paknejad presented updates on implementing regulations to support technology-based production and job creation in the oil industry.
Reforms to executive instructions supporting tech-based activities, as well as tax incentives for research and development, were approved by the council.
Hossein Afshin, the vice president for science and technology also reported on the implementation of the “Law for the Leap in Knowledge-Based Production” over the past year, outlining challenges and requirements for effective execution. The council approved budget allocations for income generated under the law.