Hamidreza Salehi, President of the Energy Export Federation and related industries, elaborated on the goals of this federation at the press conference of the 26th International Electricity Industry Exhibition and emphasized the necessity of strengthening Iran's position in the energy market. He pointed out that Iran has the second largest gas reserves in the world, stating that despite these capacities, Iran does not play a significant role in the regional energy market.
History of the Federation's Establishment and Its Goals
Salehi stated that the idea of establishing this federation emerged in the late 1980s, considering the emphasis of the Supreme Leader. The main goal of this entity is to increase the country's foreign exchange revenues and provide a platform for capable private sector activities in the energy industry. He also referred to the 20-year vision plan for 1404, which aims to raise the country's revenues to 200 billion dollars, with 80 percent of this income to be sourced from non-oil revenues.
Statistics and Current Status of Foreign Exchange Revenues
According to last year's statistics, Iran's non-oil foreign exchange revenues reached about 47 to 52 billion dollars. According to Salehi, the private sector constitutes 65 to 70 percent of the federation's members, and this sector has significant potential for increasing the country's foreign exchange revenues. He added that the federation's mission is to reform the policymaking path in the energy sector and revive Iran's position in regional and international markets.
Salehi also referred to the existing problems in the oil and gas sectors, stating: "We have solutions for the problems in the electricity and gas sectors of the country and believe that there is the capability to completely resolve the imbalances. If the necessary conditions for the activity and participation of the private sector are provided, we can achieve this goal."
The Necessity of Changing the Government's Approach
The President of the Energy Export Federation criticized the government's approach to economic management, stating that the government should step back from direct involvement and focus on its primary duties, namely policymaking. He reminded that if the government returns to its true position, we should not witness the weakening of economic enterprises and the impoverishment of the middle class.
Salehi continued by mentioning the launch of the electricity board and the provision of opportunities for the private sector and foreign investors in this market, saying: "Despite the capacities created for attracting investment, the current government policies have weakened the green electricity board and reduced prices to their lowest levels."
Challenges and Solutions Ahead
The President of the Energy Export Federation warned that the continued migration of human resources and entrepreneurs could lead to a decrease in the country's capabilities. He added: "Many skilled workers and entrepreneurs migrate when they do not have the opportunity to work and invest in the country. The root of this issue must be sought in the business environment."
In conclusion, Salehi emphasized the importance of holding the electricity industry exhibition as one of the important events related to the provision and development of the country's infrastructure, thanking exhibitors, organizers, participants, and media representatives, and expressing hope that the development of the main economic infrastructure would facilitate further growth of the country and increase people's income and purchasing power.
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