Speaking at a public relations capacity-building program for the National Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company (NIORDC), its subsidiaries and affiliated refineries, Saman Ghodousi said the overhaul is one of the Public Relations Department’s top priorities.

Ghodousi thanked government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani for attending the event and for her continued support of the Oil Ministry’s public relations teams. He said the training initiative is particularly valuable in the post-war period and amid the possibility of continued challenges.

He praised public relations professionals for their role during the recent conflict, saying they worked alongside managers, operational staff and other industry personnel while carrying significant responsibilities and providing critical support.

Public Relations Faces Unique Challenges

Ghodousi said the work of public relations professionals extends beyond routine organizational responsibilities, noting that they are often aware of major developments but cannot disclose them because of operational or strategic considerations.

“Remaining silent despite knowing the facts is one of the most difficult aspects of working in public relations,” he said.

He also highlighted the complexity of the oil industry, saying one of the profession’s key responsibilities is translating highly technical concepts into language that the general public can understand. He called for expanded training to strengthen those communication skills.

Stronger Coordination Across the Industry

Ghodousi emphasized the need for greater networking among public relations departments throughout the oil sector, saying stronger coordination would help improve communication of the industry’s achievements and activities.

He also referenced a message from the oil minister marking World Public Relations and Communications Day on May 17, which outlined two major priorities: revising the Oil Ministry’s public relations regulations and developing a comprehensive transformation plan.

According to Ghodousi, the revised framework is nearing completion, while the transformation plan is intended to update the structure and performance of public relations operations, moving them beyond traditional models and aligning them with evolving industry and communications standards.

He described both initiatives as among the ministry’s most important public relations projects and called on participants, particularly the government spokesperson, to contribute their expertise to support their implementation and improve the effectiveness of public relations across Iran’s oil industry.