TEHRAN (Iran News) Rear Admiral Irani opened the press conference by highlighting the historical achievements of the Iranian Navy, particularly during the eight-year Iran-Iraq war. He recalled the Navy’s execution of complex operations, including the iconic Operation Pearl, which disrupted the enemy’s maritime supply lines while securing Iran’s economic lifelines. “From Operation Pearl until the end of the war, over 10,000 vessels were escorted by the Navy,” he said. “Today, we carry forward that legacy by projecting Iranian maritime presence across the world’s oceans with pride and authority.”

He explained that the Navy currently operates across two strategic regions: the southern fleet, covering the Gulf of Oman, the Strait of Hormuz, and beyond into the oceans, and the northern fleet in the Caspian Sea. These deployments are part of Iran’s broader maritime strategy, which includes safeguarding trade routes, ensuring national security, and supporting strategic development along the Makran coast.

“Our presence in international waters is essential to fulfilling these missions,” Irani said. “Hundreds of commercial vessels are currently under the protection of our naval forces, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods and resources.”

Addressing the impact of renewed United Nations sanctions and the so-called “snapback” mechanism, Irani insisted that sanctions have largely backfired on those imposing them. “The world is vast, and many nations continue to engage with us,” he said. “Despite sanctions, Iranian-flagged ships continue to navigate international ports, transporting essential commercial goods. Sanctions have mostly targeted humanitarian areas, affecting patients with rare diseases, yet Iranian maritime activity persists.”

He cited the example of the 86th Iranian Navy task force, which operated in the Pacific Ocean under formal sanction restrictions. Although barred from transiting the Panama Canal, the task force successfully docked at multiple foreign ports, demonstrating Iran’s maritime capabilities and promoting Iranian-Islamic culture abroad. “Even under sanction, our Navy has showcased professionalism and resilience in international waters,” Irani added.

Irani stressed that Iran’s engagement with Antarctica is purely scientific. “The South Pole is a domain for research, and our scientists are preparing for missions there,” he said. “Our Navy provides logistical support, ensuring safe passage through international waters, but we have no military objectives in the region.” He emphasized that this approach reflects Iran’s broader commitment to scientific advancement and peaceful international cooperation.

The Admiral highlighted that the Iranian Navy has sent over 103 task forces to international waters, including two currently deployed off the east and south coasts of Africa. These missions are designed not only to secure maritime routes but also to advance Iran’s diplomatic and defense cooperation with global partners. He underscored that Iran’s naval strategy combines security, diplomacy, and humanitarian assistance.

“The Navy operates in real-time coordination with maritime security centers across the Indian Ocean,” Irani explained. “If needed, our forces can rapidly respond to any region requiring assistance.” This capability ensures that Iranian maritime operations safeguard not only national interests but also global trade and safety.

Irani outlined plans to enhance the Navy’s operational capacity with new vessels and equipment in the coming days, strengthening Iran’s ability to operate effectively in distant oceans. He stressed that these updates are crucial for the continuity of operations and sustaining maritime security in the face of international challenges.

When asked about repeating the deployment of task forces like the 86th, Irani stated, “Task Force 86 set a benchmark in global navigation and operational excellence. While future missions will achieve extraordinary feats, none will replicate the pioneering accomplishments of Task Force 86.”

Rear Admiral Irani concluded by reaffirming Iran’s commitment to securing its maritime interests, supporting scientific exploration, and maintaining its international presence despite sanctions. “Sanctions cannot prevent us from fulfilling our duties,” he said. “Iranian naval forces continue to protect commercial routes, support scientific endeavors, and operate globally with resilience, competence, and strategic foresight.”

In his remarks, Irani highlighted that Iran’s approach integrates national defense, economic security, scientific advancement, and humanitarian support, demonstrating that even under global pressure, the Iranian Navy remains a capable and adaptive force on the world stage.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) According to the Ministry of ICT, Dr. Seyed Sattar Hashemi delivered these remarks at the opening of the high-level session of the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25) in Baku. Highlighting Iran’s advances in information and communication technologies, he stressed that equal access to the digital space must be recognized as a fundamental human right. The theme of this year’s conference is “Global, meaningful and affordable connectivity for inclusive and sustainable development.”

Hashemi stated that Iran has significantly reduced the cost of high-usage mobile internet packages to 0.3% of GDP per capita, and fixed internet to 0.2%, placing the country among the most affordable in the world. He noted that Iran has removed one of the largest barriers to online access: high costs.

The minister added that Iran now has 166.3 mobile internet subscriptions per 100 inhabitants, with more than 92% coverage of 3G and 4G/LTE networks. Deployment of 5G networks has accelerated, with over 2,400 active sites nationwide.

Hashemi stressed that internet connectivity should not merely mean being online; it must enable meaningful benefits, creating opportunities for scientific, economic, and social development.

He pointed to Iran’s progress in narrowing the digital gap between urban and rural areas, noting that Iran ranks ninth globally in reducing the rural gap in digital payments. Financial technology and online services have become nearly equally accessible to citizens in both cities and villages.

Hashemi attributed these achievements to two major national programs. The first program, he said, is establishing a digital ecosystem for government services, which provides public services through a single platform supported by intelligent agents. These agents handle administrative processes on behalf of users, saving time, energy, and expenses while improving social fairness. “Sanctions”

The second program focuses on expanding the national fiber-optic network. Iran is transitioning from copper lines to fiber, extending high-speed connectivity to homes and businesses. More than 9 million households are now connected, achieving over 45% of projected national goals.

The minister noted that this expansion not only improves internet quality but also provides a stable foundation for future-focused technologies such as smart cities, distance learning, and digital healthcare. “Sanctions”

Hashemi emphasized that these accomplishments were secured under difficult conditions, including military strikes against civilian communication infrastructure, cyberattacks, and restrictions on advanced technology and financial networks during the recent 12-day conflict. He credited the resilience of Iran’s infrastructure and expertise of its workforce.

He said Iran is ready for win-win cooperation with all nations to advance inclusive digital development, aiming to increase the contribution of the digital economy to 10% of the national GDP.

Concluding his remarks, the minister highlighted the crucial role of international cooperation in achieving sustainable digital development. He asserted that the target of a 10% digital economy share cannot be met without global partnerships. The Islamic Republic of Iran, he said, welcomes engagement with other nations to foster synergy in building a digital future accessible to all.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Over the past decade, Iran’s economy has faced severe challenges from U.S. unilateral sanctions and maximum-pressure policies. More recently, Europe’s attempt to trigger the “snapback mechanism” despite opposition from China and Russia, and the expiration of UN Resolution 2231, have raised new questions about Iran’s economic future. However, the ratification of Iran’s membership in the Palermo and CFT conventions — related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) — has revived hopes among business leaders for improved international trade relations.

Speaking to IRNA, Hariri noted that Iran’s trade problems are primarily due to U.S. banking sanctions, not FATF restrictions. “We are under U.S. financial sanctions, which means we are shut out of the global banking system entirely. Banks that deal with Iran face heavy fines, so FATF compliance makes no difference while sanctions remain in place,” he said.

He explained that even during the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA), Iran struggled to use international banking channels. “Our problem is not FATF — it’s the sanctions. We are like a bird trapped in a cage. Even if we grow new wings, we still can’t fly out,” Hariri remarked.

Nevertheless, he said joining international conventions has two advantages: first, if sanctions are ever lifted, Iran can quickly reconnect with global banks; and second, it eliminates the excuse that FATF non-membership is to blame for the country’s economic challenges.

Despite restrictions, Hariri noted that Iran managed around $140–150 billion in trade in 2024, proving that “it’s possible to conduct significant business even under sanctions.”

Addressing concerns about the so-called “snapback mechanism,” Hariri said it has “nothing to do with normal trade.” The mechanism concerns reinstating UN sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, not regular commercial activity. “These political issues are often exaggerated. They have political implications but no major economic consequences,” he added.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry, he said, has already declared the mechanism ineffective and called for related UN sanctions to be removed from the organization’s website. “Those who amplify these fears, knowingly or not, fall into the trap set by sanctioning powers — spreading fear to magnify the impact of sanctions,” Hariri warned.

Hariri argued that Iran has learned to live under sanctions. “In 2010, when the harshest sanctions were imposed, our oil exports and non-oil trade actually hit record highs. Since 2017, when sanctions intensified again, we’ve learned to adapt. Last year we traded about $140 billion with the world,” he said.

He also noted that Iran is no longer alone in facing sanctions: “There’s now a global ‘club of sanctioned nations’ — countries with major natural resources that still manage to assert economic power.”

The real problem, he insisted, is domestic: “Mismanagement and factional disputes worsen the effects of sanctions. If our leaders prioritize people’s welfare and economic stability, sanctions’ impact will be much less severe.”

Hariri urged Iranian authorities to reduce dependence on the U.S.-led financial system and diversify trade partners beyond the current limited group — mainly China, the UAE, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Turkey. “The global banking system is dominated by the U.S. We should have freed ourselves from that influence long ago,” he said.

He also called for using China’s yuan in bilateral trade instead of the euro to cut transaction costs. “About 30% of Iran’s direct trade and another 15% indirect trade is with China, but much of it is still settled in euros. If we used the yuan, we could cut transaction costs by two to three percent — saving hundreds of millions of dollars annually,” Hariri said.

He blamed “sanctions profiteers” for resisting such changes: “Some benefit from currency conversions and deliberately maintain these costly arrangements.”

Hariri highlighted the difference between Iran’s relations with Russia and China. “Russia is our competitor in oil, gas, and metals — but China is our economic complement. Whether sanctions exist or not, Iran and China’s economies naturally fit together,” he stated.

China and Russia’s opposition to Europe’s attempt to reimpose UN sanctions, he said, shows continued political and economic alignment with Iran.

In conclusion, Hariri urged Iranian leaders to focus on fairness and economic justice. “After recent conflicts, we’re in a special economic situation. People will support the government when they feel their livelihoods are protected. Today, inequality and corruption are greater threats than sanctions,” he warned.

He criticized the rise of a “new rich class” flaunting wealth through luxury cars and extravagant lifestyles while ordinary citizens struggle. “If corruption and inequality are not addressed seriously, we will face much deeper crises,” Hariri cautioned.

“Sanctions hurt, but mismanagement and neglect of people’s livelihoods hurt even more,” he concluded.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking to Iran Chamber Online, Mehdi Mir-Emadi, President of the Iran–France Joint Chamber of Commerce, said that while no precise data is currently available on bilateral trade, indications show a clear decline.

Iran’s exports to France grew by 23 percent in 2024, reaching 21 million euros,” Mir-Emadi said. “However, Iran’s imports from France have decreased. The domestic political turmoil in France has accelerated and deepened the downward trend in trade relations to the point where no accurate statistics are currently available.”

He added that a small volume of trade continues indirectly through third countries such as the UAE (Dubai) and Turkey, but even these transactions lack reliable figures.

Mir-Emadi emphasized that the negative effects of France’s internal political situation on trade with Iran are greater than those caused by sanctions. He noted that as long as France’s domestic political issues remain unresolved, there is little hope for even a modest recovery in bilateral trade.

The chamber head also referred to trade statistics from recent years, pointing out that despite the current turmoil, Eurostat data for 2023 ranked France as Iran’s fifth-largest trading partner within the European Union.

However, trade between the two nations has been on a steady decline over the past five years — dropping from approximately €400 million in 2019 to €276 million in 2024, representing a 30 percent decrease overall.

Iran’s exports to France grew by 23 percent in 2024, reaching 21 million euros,” Mir-Emadi said. “However, Iran’s imports from France have decreased. The domestic political turmoil in France has accelerated and deepened the downward trend in trade relations to the point where no accurate statistics are currently available.”

He added that a small volume of trade continues indirectly through third countries such as the UAE (Dubai) and Turkey, but even these transactions lack reliable figures.

Mir-Emadi emphasized that the negative effects of France’s internal political situation on trade with Iran are greater than those caused by sanctions. He noted that as long as France’s domestic political issues remain unresolved, there is little hope for even a modest recovery in bilateral trade.

The chamber head also referred to trade statistics from recent years, pointing out that despite the current turmoil, Eurostat data for 2023 ranked France as Iran’s fifth-largest trading partner within the European Union.

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TEHRAN (Iran News)  the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson says that the attempts by the UK, France, and Germany (E3) to reinstate old UN sanctions against Iran are legally invalid.

Maria Zakharova characterized these efforts as a form of double-dealing, saying that all legal sanctions imposed by these countries lack legal validity, according to Russia’s TASS news agency.

The spokesperson referred to the snapback mechanism, which allows for the rapid reimposition of UN sanctions against Iran. She criticized the European states for circumventing the dispute resolution process outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2231, arguing that they engaged in a trick by omitting necessary steps before reporting to the UN Security Council.

She emphasized that parties should first address claims through the established dispute resolution mechanism, and only refer issues to the Security Council if all attempts fail. Zakharova pointed out that the European trio has repeatedly violated Resolution 2231. Following the expiration of specific restrictions on Iran on October 18, 2023, they imposed similar sanctions, she noted.

On August 28, the European countries sent a letter to the UN Security Council, and the 30-day period to halt this process concluded on September 27, she wrote on her Telegram account.

According to the Russian spokesperson, the Security Council did not pass a resolution to restore exemptions from sanctions against Iran.

Zakharova noted that Russia and China made a final effort on September 26 to preserve the legitimacy of Resolution 2231, aiming to seek a diplomatic solution and prevent potential escalation.

She concluded that the Western states’ actions undermine fundamental principles of international law.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking Wednesday evening at a ceremony honoring top exporters in Razavi Khorasan province, Dehnavi highlighted the growing challenges Iranian exporters and importers face. “All traders, whether exporting or importing, are entangled in a maze of cumbersome and sometimes contradictory regulations,” he said. “These regulatory obstacles now impose more pressure than the sanctions themselves.”

Despite the challenges, he noted Razavi Khorasan achieved a significant 33% increase in the value of its non-oil exports last year—more than double the national average growth of 15.6%, which amounted to $57.8 billion. Dehnavi praised this as one of the country’s most successful export years.

The deputy minister of Industry, Mine, and Trade emphasized that the TPO has three primary objectives: streamlining trade procedures, promoting free trade agreements, and encouraging investment in export-oriented production.

“Removing bureaucratic barriers is a top priority,” he stated, adding that such hurdles harm exporters more than sanctions and need to be eliminated to boost export-led growth and a dynamic economy.

He also addressed the economic relationship with neighboring Afghanistan, describing it as both vital and misunderstood. “Millions of Afghans live and work in Iran, often sending earnings back home for family support or investment. This creates a form of barter—goods exchanged for labor,” he explained.

Dehnavi questioned the logic behind demanding foreign currency returns from traders who export to Afghanistan in local currency. “Why must we impose strict foreign exchange compliance when it’s clear that financial exchanges with Afghanistan function differently? This rigid policy only restricts our exporters,” he said.

He called for urgent reforms in foreign exchange commitment regulations, arguing that government intervention in trade processes should be minimized. “We all agree that export earnings belong to the country and should return to the economy. But it should not be up to the government to dictate when, how, and at what price,” he said. “Such interference disrupts the flow of currency back into the system.”

Dehnavi said exporters should be free to repatriate their earnings without bureaucratic interference.

Regarding free trade efforts, he announced that Iran’s Free Trade Agreement with the five Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member countries would take effect on May 14. “This agreement presents both opportunities and challenges for our business community,” he said, adding that talks are underway with more than 10 other countries for similar deals.

The third focus of the TPO, he said, is fostering investment in export-oriented industries. “To achieve a major leap in exports, we must prioritize investment in production for export. This strategy is being actively pursued through the High Council for Non-Oil Exports and other bodies,” he added.

Dehnavi reiterated that exports to Afghanistan should be treated as barter and not be hampered by rigid currency return regulations. He also highlighted Razavi Khorasan’s potential as a leader in export-focused investment.

The TPO, he announced, will support the establishment of seven export terminals in the province, with the local export development task force approving all of them. “This delegation of authority will open a new front for exports in the region,” he said.

The event concluded with a ceremony recognizing 44 top exporters from Razavi Khorasan, attended by Dehnavi, the provincial governor, and other officials.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Aqaee reflected on Iran Expo 2024, noting that while the event attracted over 3,000 foreign visitors, many of them were not professional traders. He emphasized the critical role of joint chambers of commerce in inviting targeted foreign guests to such events. “In Iran Expo 2024, we had a large number of foreign visitors, but many were not professional traders,” he said. Looking ahead to Iran Expo 2025, Aqaee expressed hope that collaboration between the Iran Chamber of Commerce, joint chambers, and embassies of target countries would ensure a more refined selection of attendees, prioritizing professional traders.

Despite limited resources, Aqaee stressed the need for purposeful action at Iran Expo 2025, stating, “The expo undoubtedly contributes to enhancing our export capabilities. Many visitors are astonished when they see our potential.” He added that such events serve as a platform for public diplomacy, allowing foreign traders to discover the capabilities of Iranian companies firsthand.

However, Aqaee pointed out a major barrier to capitalizing on this interest: “Traders from various countries visit Iran, witness our capabilities, and show great enthusiasm for cooperation and signing contracts. But due to FATF issues and sanctions, we cannot initiate serious collaboration.” The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) restrictions and ongoing sanctions continue to limit Iran’s ability to engage fully in international trade.

To address these challenges, Aqaee called for stronger government-level negotiations, noting that some issues cannot be resolved solely by the private sector. “These problems require agreements at the governmental level,” he said.

In preparation for Iran Expo 2025, the Iran-Uzbekistan Joint Chamber of Commerce is actively inviting Uzbek traders and organizing events, including B2B meetings with Iranian counterparts, to foster trade ties despite the existing constraints.

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