According to the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, who traveled to Bandar Abbas on Tuesday, attended the 6th International Conference on Persian Gulf Oceanography, where she addressed senior officials, lawmakers, academics, and maritime experts.
In her remarks, the Minister noted that the Persian Gulf holds exceptional importance not only for Iran but also for regional stability and the international system, given the close interconnection between geography, economy, and security in the area. She stressed that a significant share of Iran’s national planning across multiple sectors depends on this vital waterway.
Sadegh underscored that the sustainable development of the Persian Gulf requires a forward-looking approach that integrates environmental protection, optimal use of natural resources, and long-term economic planning, supported by the convergence of scientific research, advanced technologies, and strategic policymaking.
Highlighting Iran’s privileged geographical position due to its access to open waters and proximity to key maritime corridors, the Minister said this advantage continues to feature prominently in Iran’s diplomatic engagements and regional cooperation initiatives.
She also emphasized the importance of multimodal transportation, stating that the coordinated development of road, rail, and maritime networks forms the backbone of national trade and economic growth. Any strategic planning in this sector, she added, must be grounded in accurate data, scientific analysis, and long-term forecasting.
Referring to the critical role of maritime transport, Sadegh noted that enhancing maritime safety, reducing accidents, and improving port efficiency depend on precise planning and the effective use of scientific information.
The Minister highlighted the close link between maritime activities and marine meteorology, describing it as a key element in intelligent decision-making and risk management. She pointed out that the National Meteorological Organization, through continuous monitoring, data collection, and advanced modeling, provides the scientific foundation for safe and sustainable maritime operations.
The Minister added that early warning systems and timely dissemination of information enable preventive planning and reduce human and financial losses, underscoring the strategic importance of marine meteorology in national policymaking.
Finally, she highlighted the role of marine science in strengthening international cooperation and scientific diplomacy, noting that the Persian Gulf is a shared and sensitive region. Data sharing, joint research, and comparative analyses, she said, can facilitate collective decision-making and regional collaboration.
Concluding her remarks, the Minister expressed appreciation for the researchers, academics, and organizers of the conference and voiced hope that its outcomes would contribute to enhanced scientific knowledge, stronger international cooperation, and the sustainable development of Iran’s maritime-based economy.