Speaking on the sidelines of the Shiraz Oil, Gas
and Petrochemical Exhibition, Shahdaei stressed the importance of holding the
event independently from Expo 2025 to better showcase domestic and
international capabilities across the energy value chain.
“The Shiraz exhibition has long been an important
event for Iran’s energy sector. However, given the current circumstances, it
would have been beneficial to invite more foreign companies active in
technology, equipment supply, and petrochemical machinery,” she said. “Their
participation could have facilitated technology transfer and improved access to
industrial components.”
Shahdaei, who also served as deputy oil minister,
praised the strong presence of Iranian companies despite sanctions, noting that
domestic contractors, component manufacturers, and equipment suppliers have
demonstrated significant progress during the sanctions era.
She described the overall exhibition as positive
but expressed regret that sanctions had limited foreign participation. “Such
presence could have been mutually beneficial—allowing us to leverage
international expertise while giving foreign firms a clearer picture of Iran’s
advancements in oil, gas, and petrochemicals,” she said.
Highlighting the exhibition’s strategic role,
Shahdaei said it offers a vital platform to display the latest achievements,
innovations, and technologies in Iran’s energy industries. “It is an
opportunity to present national capabilities, address industry challenges, and
develop practical solutions to support the sector’s continued growth,” she
added.