In his message, he described petroleum industry as the “biggest and the most important economic and industrial” sector in the country.

“The status of the petroleum industry and the crucial role of its staff working in deep waters of Persian Gulf and other parts of the country in generation of wealth for national progress is no secret to anyone,” the message read.

“Under the present circumstances in which cruel sanctions have reached their peak, your determination, endeavors, solidarity and merits will be able to turn the page,” he said in the message to oil industry staff.

Zanganeh won the vote of confidence from parliament on Thursday to take back the post he held from 1997 to 2005.

Born in 1952 in the western city of Kermanshah, Zanganeh holds an MSc in civil engineering from University of Tehran. He was a top student during his education.

Zanganeh served as minister of petroleum in the administration of former president Mohammad Khatami from 1997 to 2005.  

He was deputy minister of culture and Islamic guidance for cultural affairs from 1980 to 1982, core member of Reconstruction Jihad from 1982 to 1983, minister of reconstruction jihad from 1983 to 1988 and minister of energy from 1988 to 1997.

Zanganeh was also a member of the government’s Economic Council for 23 years up to 2005 and sat in the Expediency Council for 15 years up to 2011.