Iran Moving Forward on Path of Progress despite Coronavirus - Rouhani

By Staff, Agencies

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the outbreak of the coronavirus in Iran has not brought economic activities in the country to a halt, describing the inauguration of new projects as a testimony to Iran’s economic unfaltering progress.

Addressing a ceremony held in the capital city of Tehran on Thursday to inaugurate several national projects carried out by the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, Rouhani said economic activities are currently underway across the country despite the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.

The strict restrictions placed on businesses in February and March have been lifted, he noted, emphasizing that all economic activities must fully comply with the health regulations to prevent any problem.

Rouhani also said inauguration of new road and housing projects in a very tough year when Iran is struggling with severe sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic at the same time has given the world the message that “the Iranian nation’s move towards glory and excellence does not stall and Iran keeps to the path of development.”

He further highlighted the significant role of transportation industry in dealing with the coronavirus-related problems, saying the administration gives priority to the health and the livelihood of people.

“Transportation accounts for a major share of the foreign currency revenues, exports and production,” he said, adding that the process of exports and imports relies on land, railway, maritime, and aerial transportation.

Pointing to the pressure that the coronavirus outbreak has put on the transportation and tourism industries in Iran, Rouhani said the transportation has begun to revive since May.

“Thank God, we are witnessing very good movements in the maritime routes and the ports, particularly in Chabahar, as well as in the railroad and land transportation,” he concluded.