Key facts
- Iran is ready for regional cooperation and understanding with countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
- U.S. sanctions have reduced Iran's exports and imports by up to 35 percent.
- Barter trade has become an alternative for fund transfers due to banking limitations.
- Neighboring countries have provided security cooperation to prevent unrest.
- Iran has added nearly 7,000 megawatts of solar power capacity to its national grid.
- The Chabahar–Zahedan railway is nearing operational status.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran is prepared for regional cooperation and understanding with neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. He indicated that closer ties and the use of barter trade have helped Iran sustain its economy and trade despite U.S. sanctions and financial restrictions.
Pezeshkian noted that sanctions and blockades have reduced Iran's exports and imports by as much as 35 percent. He highlighted that difficulties in transferring funds have led Iran and its neighbors to adopt barter trade as an alternative. The president also praised neighboring countries for their security cooperation, which he said has helped prevent hostile groups from infiltrating Iran and causing unrest during periods of conflict.
He attributed Iran's resilience to strong support and strategic guidance from the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, and the continued promotion of national unity by the current Leader, Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei. Despite reduced foreign currency earnings from oil export restrictions, the government is actively working with economists, business leaders, and industry representatives to mitigate the economic challenges.
In terms of infrastructure, Pezeshkian announced that nearly 7,000 megawatts of solar power capacity have been added to the national grid, with further expansion underway. He also highlighted the progress in railway development, including the upcoming operational status of the Chabahar–Zahedan railway and the completion of land acquisition for the Rasht–Astara railway, which is expected to involve Russian participation. Additionally, metropolitan rail projects are being advanced to alleviate traffic congestion and improve air quality.