Tehran: Mohammad Eslami, vice president and head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI), has emphasized the significant role of the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution in advancing Iran's peaceful nuclear program. Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's guidance and support have been pivotal in steering the industry, Eslami stated during a television program called 'Time to Rise', where he expressed condolences for the leader's martyrdom.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Eslami elaborated on Ayatollah Khamenei's foundational influence, which enabled the nuclear industry to achieve its objectives through efficient mechanisms and domestic capabilities. Despite facing obstructions from adversaries, Eslami praised the Iranian people's discernment and zeal, which have elevated the country's global standing.
Eslami highlighted the advancements in nuclear-related developments, with a focus on clean and sustainable energy. He noted that Iran is committed to increasing its power plants, in line with global trends, and is advancing rapidly towards this objective. Prior to the Islamic Revolution, nuclear power plant studies were conducted abroad, but were later localized under the late Leader's vision, who prioritized generating 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power starting in 2007.
The AEOI chief pointed out that adversaries attempted to hinder cooperation with Iran through industrial sabotage and assassination of scientists, and even resorted to wars to prevent Iran from accessing vital nuclear technology. This technology is crucial for sectors like mining, oil, gas, petrochemicals, agriculture, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Discussing the Bushehr Nuclear Plant's operational status and its record-breaking electricity generation, Eslami revealed plans for expanding such facilities along the southern coast and in Khuzestan and Golestan provinces. A project in Hormozgan Province aims to achieve the 20,000 megawatts target by 2020, as directed by the martyred Leader.
Eslami explained that nuclear power generation has saved 131 million barrels of oil, with the plant yielding an economic return two and a half times its initial investment. The Seventh Development Plan includes public investment in the nuclear energy sector, and new power plants will gradually meet industrial and public needs over a 20-year period.
Highlighting the healthcare sector, Eslami mentioned that the AEOI produces 80 types of radiopharmaceuticals for medical use, under an agreement with the Iran Food and Drug Administration (IFDA). These products, used by approximately 1.5 million people annually, also serve export markets.
Despite limitations, domestically produced radiopharmaceuticals have transitioned from research and clinical trials to market supply. Eslami concluded by referencing the public turnout at the martyred leader's funeral procession, which sent a clear message to adversaries and reaffirmed the people's allegiance to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei. The Iranian populace remains committed to the honor and progress of Islamic Iran.