TEHRAN: Iran has revealed plans to establish a specialized national laboratory focused on artificial intelligence (AI), aimed at addressing critical issues such as energy imbalance and air pollution. The announcement was made by Behrouz Minaie, Secretary of Iran's Council of Artificial Intelligence, Laser and Quantum Technologies.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Minaie disclosed the initiative on Monday but did not specify a launch date for the AI laboratory. The facility is expected to leverage AI technologies to find solutions to pressing issues impacting daily life in Iran. The government intends to collaborate with universities, laboratories, the private sector, and knowledge-based companies to drive this effort.

Minaie emphasized the importance of clean energy in resolving current energy shortages, stating that a shift towards sustainable energy solutions is imperative. He also highlighted the necessity of developing smart cities as a prerequisite for adopting clean energy technologies. In line with this, discussions are underway with officials from the Qeshm Free Zone to designate a district for the pilot creation of a smart city.

The establishment of the AI laboratory is part of a broader government strategy to utilize technological advancements to improve the quality of life for Iranian citizens and address environmental and energy-related challenges.