Pezeshkian: Security of Persian Gulf, its waterways depends on regional states' responsibility
Tehran - BORNA - "The sustainable security of the Persian Gulf and its waterways depends, more than anything, on the cooperation, responsibility and role-playing of the countries of the region," Pezeshkian wrote.
He said Iran's powerful presence in its waters over the past year was evidence of the high determination of its seafarers, "who did not allow the pulse of the country's vital arteries to stop for even a moment," and showed that coordination among the government, the private sector and security forces can remove obstacles.
The full text of the president's message:
"In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
'He subjected the ships to you, that they may sail through the sea by His command.' (Surah Ibrahim, 32)
For our great Iran, the sea is not merely a body of water, but a divine blessing and part of the history, identity and life of this land — and one of the most important capacities of the country's present and future.
The Iranian nation has lived with the sea since ancient times, connected with the world through it, and benefited from its capacities for trade, prosperity and progress. Today, too, the sea and the maritime industry are among the important foundations of economic growth, regional development, employment and connection with the world.
Our country, with its extensive coastlines in the north and south and its position on important regional communication routes, is one of the centers of maritime economy and navigation in the world. Throughout history, thanks to the high efforts of its seafarers, we now hold a valuable position in this industry and can transfer our experiences to others.
In this path, security and development are not separate from one another; the security of the sea, ports and transport lines provides the ground for the flow of trade and economic activity, and economic development in turn strengthens the country's national standing and capability. The Islamic Republic, relying on the capability and experience of its naval forces and all those involved in the maritime field, pursues its responsibility in maintaining the security and stability of the region's waterways and ensuring the security of shipping and maritime trade with seriousness.
The Strait of Hormuz, as one of the most important maritime passages, holds a special place in the security and economy of the region and the world. Our view of this strategic waterway is responsible and based on preserving the security, stability and interests of the countries of the region. We believe that the sustainable security of the Persian Gulf and its waterways depends, more than anything, on the cooperation, responsibility and role-playing of the countries of the region.
The powerful presence in the waterways over the past year is evidence of the high determination of the men who did not allow the pulse of the country's vital arteries to stop for even a moment. The country's maritime community showed that coordination among the government, the private sector and security forces can remove obstacles from the path.
Alongside economy and security, we must also see the sea as an important arena for science and environmental protection. The future of sea-based development is not possible without universities, research, technology and serious attention to the marine environment. Better understanding of the seas, development of new technologies, improvement of maritime safety, use of marine energy capacities, and protection of marine ecosystems are investments for the country's future and for future generations.
We believe that the private sector, shipping companies, the fishing community, port and maritime industry actors, universities and scientific centers, and coastal communities each have an effective role. The government's duty is to pave the way for greater public and private sector participation by reducing obstacles, facilitating, coordinating institutions, improving infrastructure and providing the ground for participation and investment.
Today, more than ever, we need a link between science, experience, executive capability and popular capacities, so that through the synergy of all institutions and sectors, we can elevate the country's position in the maritime economy and in regional and international relations.
Congratulating this day to all seafarers, those working in this field and their families, I honor the memory of all the martyrs of the maritime field and the seafarers who lost their lives in the line of duty, and I wish pride and prosperity for dear Iran."
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