Tehran: Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Sattar Hashemi, has praised the continuity of space operations during the recent imposed war despite damage to some infrastructure, saying the resilience demonstrated by experts proved that Iranian space development cannot be halted by attacks on physical facilities.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the minister, speaking at a meeting with managers and experts from the Iranian Space Research Center and the Iranian Space Agency in Tehran on Wednesday, highlighted the achievements made under the incumbent administration. These achievements reflect the efforts of the country's space specialists and underscore the sector's role in smart agriculture, water resource management, and data-driven governance.

He further underscored the strategic importance of the country's space industry, describing skilled human resources and indigenous expertise as its most valuable assets. Hashemi stressed that protecting the welfare, motivation, and job security of specialists is essential for maintaining competitiveness in regional and global technological arenas.

The minister announced that preparations are underway to place the Pars-2 satellite into orbit. Additionally, the Shahid Soleimani satellite constellation is expected to be ready for launch by the end of the year. Hashemi also emphasized technology diplomacy, stronger cooperation with friendly countries, and greater participation by the private sector to enhance the resilience of Iran's space industry.

During the meeting, officials reviewed infrastructure conditions and plans to expand practical applications of space technologies across various sectors.