Pezeshkian calls for proactive steps to attract oil, energy investment
Iran’s victory against Israel ascribed to defense power, national unity
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian underlined the importance of increasing investment in the oil industry, stating that the country must act more proactively to attract and utilize the potential investment interest expressed by numerous entities in the field of energy production.
In an unannounced visit to Iran’s Oil Ministry on Sunday, he appreciated the diligent efforts of the ministry’s managers and staffers to prevent shortages and challenges in the energy supply during the12-day Israeli-imposed war (launched on June 13), as reported by IRNA reported.
The president emphasized the importance of increasing investment in the oil industry, stating, "Numerous individuals and entities have expressed readiness and interest in investing in the field of energy production and consumption management. We must act more proactively to attract and utilize this potential."
He also described the development of clean energy infrastructure, particularly accelerating the construction of solar power plants, as a complementary measure in energy production and consumption management.
Furthermore, he noted it creates cost-efficiency for attracting investors to the sector.
Pezeshkian had granted all administrative departments a deadline - effective June 21 - to supply part of their required electricity from solar energy.
"Expanding solar power plants will reduce the need to supply subsidized gas and diesel for electricity production, which will free up the Oil Ministry's capacity for investment and increase the attractiveness for private sector investors," Pezeshkian said.
He instructed the officials at the ministry to formulate and present solutions for optimal management of energy production and particularly consumption.
The president directed them to conduct precise studies, utilize all existing experience, and incorporate expert opinions.
Expressing hope that the country will not face energy shortages this winter, adding, "In this process, consider all opportunities, threats, and possibilities, and make the necessary forecasts."
Defense power, national unity
Elsewhere in his remarks, Pezeshkian credited Iran’s triumph in the 12-day war against Israel to the nation’s robust defense capabilities and unwavering cohesion, emphasizing their significance in overcoming the Israeli regime’s aggression.
“It was you, along with people from various walks of life, who, with the right understanding and timely wisdom, thwarted the enemy’s plots to destabilize the country,” the Iranian president said.
“If it weren’t for the people’s unity and active engagement on the ground, alongside our Armed Forces’ capabilities and missiles that dismantled Israel’s reputation, our triumph and victory would have been unattainable.”
Pezeshkian also emphasized the administration’s commitment to promoting diplomacy as a means to prevent future wars and conflicts.
“War benefits no one and never has a winner,” he asserted.
“We are dedicated to fostering peace, tranquility, and stability, driven by our motto and strategy of national unity, internal solidarity, and fostering amicable relationships with our neighbors and global community.
“We do not engage in aggression and have no intention to do so; however, we will steadfastly resist any attempts at intimidation or coercion,” he concluded.
On June 13, Israel launched a blatant and unprovoked aggression against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians.
More than a week later, the United States also jumped on the bandwagon and bombed three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
In response, Iranian armed forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories as well as the al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military base in West Asia.
On June 24, the regime declared a unilateral ceasefire without any preconditions, a sign of its defeat in the face of powerful and unwavering Iranian retaliation.