Addressing the exhibition on Friday evening, Owji
underscored the significance of the nation's oil, gas, and petrochemical
industries, citing them as among the country's vital resources.
"Before the revolution, Iran's oil industry was under
the influence of foreign advisors, leading to its exploitation. However, in the
past 44 years since the victory of the Islamic Revolution, significant
advancements have transpired in the oil industry. Presently, there are no
foreign advisors in any sector of the country's oil and gas industry, and the
development of the oil industry is carried out by domestic experts," Owji
emphasized.
Highlighting the historical context, Owji mentioned that
before the Islamic Revolution, Iran had only one petrochemical plant and one
gas refinery.
Providing a comprehensive overview of the oil industry's
activities and accomplishments, Owji revealed that presently, there are 68
petrochemical complexes in the country, contributing over $14 billion in hard currency
to the NIMA system through their product exports.
"We have a positive outlook in the oil industry. In the
petrochemical industry, we've strived to move towards self-sufficiency and
value creation through the engagement of Iranian specialists, the attraction of
elites, and collaboration with knowledge-based companies," stated Owji.
Emphasizing the allocation of feedstock to petrochemical
units, Owji outlined the process where each petrochemical plant receives gas
through a 6 to 8-inch gas pipeline, transforming it into high-value-added
petrochemical products.
"Last year witnessed an addition of 5 million tons to
the country's petrochemical capacity. Petrochemical production aims for high
added value, preventing raw product exports, and ensuring resilience against
sanctions," Owji elaborated.
Owji proudly stated that the Ministry of Petroleum has held
the top position in initial cargo construction for two years. At the beginning
of the 13th government's term, the oil industry collaborated with 150
knowledge-based companies, a number that has now expanded to 600 companies.
The exhibition serves as a platform to showcase the
achievements and advancements of the government over the past two years.