VP terms smart technologies, AI as ‘absolute necessity’
Vice President Mohammadreza Aref, during a ceremony marking the centenary celebration of Bank Sepah, one of the oldest institutions in Iran’s development, underscored the critical role of cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in improving operational quality.
Aref described the adoption of smart systems, AI, and advanced innovations as an “absolute necessity” and warned, “Today, we cannot remain passive observers of technology, as this would allow it to impose itself on us at a heavy cost, leading to dependency and subjugation,” as reported by IRNA.
Addressing Iran’s ambition to rank among the top 15 nations in nanotechnology, the vice president reiterated the directive from Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, “The Leader of the Islamic Revolution has stressed that in artificial intelligence, we must secure a position among the top 10 countries. This is not mere rhetoric but a strategic imperative for national development.”
He expressed confidence in Iran’s scientific and human capital, stating, “With our robust research capabilities and talented youth, we are poised to lead in emerging fields like AI and quantum technology — both in human resources today and in groundbreaking advancements tomorrow.”
Turning to the banking sector’s role in national progress, Aref acknowledged past contributions but urged critical reflection, “While we must honor previous efforts, we must also evaluate how to serve more effectively and identify pathways to amplify our impact on the nation’s development.”
Priorities for banking system
Aref emphasized Iran’s commitment to global scientific collaboration, declaring, “We have consistently stated that technological and scientific achievements should be shared freely, as knowledge belongs to humanity. Science cannot be confined to serve narrow national interests; it must advance humane causes and service to society.”
He outlined key priorities for the banking system, stressing the need for continued modernization, smart technology adoption, and financing domestic production. Other imperatives include engaging in regional diplomacy, optimizing human resources and social capital, and ensuring transparent governance that responds to citizens as true stakeholders. Aref also highlighted the importance of leveraging household savings, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and pursuing a fundamental overhaul of the banking system.
On reforms, Aref asserted, “Transforming the banking sector is urgent. Rather than waiting for external pressures, we must proactively cultivate competition within the system, aligning it with national development goals and public expectations. The government stands ready to support this transformation alongside the banking sector.”