Iran’s government has announced its strategic efforts to establish itself as a regional gas hub, leveraging its extensive natural gas reserves and building partnerships with neighboring countries. Speaking on the sidelines of a government meeting, Oil Minister Joad Oji emphasized that Iran’s position as the holder of the world’s second-largest gas reserves provides a strong foundation for regional energy collaboration.
In remarks reported by Tasnim News Agency, Oji highlighted the government’s progress in settling longstanding debts to Turkmenistan, stating that over the past 20 months, Iran has resolved its primary financial obligations. This achievement has opened the door for increased trade and energy cooperation with regional players such as Russia, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan. Preparations are reportedly underway to integrate Iran into a broader network of gas distribution.
The minister also noted significant developments in the oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors under the current administration. For the first time, an offshore refinery has been established in Latin America, specifically in Venezuela, utilizing local capacities to refine oil, reduce crude exports, and enhance added value. According to Oji, such initiatives circumvent sanctions and cater to global energy needs. He emphasized that Iran will continue to develop similar refineries in other countries as part of its long-term strategy.
Addressing concerns over gasoline production and distribution, Oji stated that all gasoline produced in Iran’s ten refineries meets Euro standards. He reassured that there are no supply issues, even in regions such as Kishore, where production in three refineries is specifically limited to Euro 5 standard gasoline.
The minister also called on citizens to utilize their personal fuel cards, noting that the number of cardholders at gas stations has decreased. These cards, he explained, are essential for those who have lost or forgotten their own cards, allowing for emergency use in such cases.
Iran’s energy policies, including its recent moves toward building partnerships and leveraging offshore refining capacities, underline its ambition to navigate sanctions and strengthen its role in the regional and global energy landscape. With preparations underway for expanded collaboration in gas distribution, Iran’s vision of becoming a regional gas hub seems to be gaining momentum.
Source: Tasnim News Agency