Hamid Bovard made the remarks during a visit to the newsroom of Shana, the Petro Energy Information Network, on the occasion of Iran’s Journalist Day.

He said reporting on the oil industry requires specialized knowledge and a clear understanding of audiences, adding that coverage should strike a balance between the industry’s technical issues and the concerns of society, particularly economic audiences.

“Because of the nature of some information and considerations related to oil production, sales and other activities, it is not always possible to publish details,” Bovard said. “Selecting topics and producing appropriate media content therefore requires a thorough understanding of circumstances and the industry’s requirements.”

Media’s Role in Building Public Confidence

Bovard emphasized the role of the media in strengthening public confidence, saying coverage of effective oil industry projects, initiatives and activities can help explain achievements and foster a greater sense of optimism in society.

He said the oil industry serves a broad range of audiences, meaning media content should be accessible and engaging not only for industry professionals but also for families and the general public.

Some of the industry’s social responsibility initiatives, including educational and empowerment programs in disadvantaged areas, also have significant potential for media coverage, he said.

Learning From Oil Media’s History

Bovard stressed the importance of preserving and strengthening specialized oil industry media, saying Mashal magazine can maintain its position despite the expansion of digital media if its content becomes more diverse and better aligned with the needs of employees’ families and other readers.

He suggested that oil industry media expand beyond specialized news to cover social, cultural, legal, health, sports and family issues, helping build stronger connections with employees and their families.

The oil industry has a long history of communication and public relations, Bovard said, adding that studying the development of public relations and media in the industry could offer useful lessons for shaping its future.

New Media, New Opportunities

Bovard also highlighted the potential of emerging media platforms in the oil industry, saying initiatives such as internet television and specialized information networks could help establish more direct and effective communication with audiences.

He said media and public relations have become specialized fields, and professionals working in them must have both a deep understanding of the oil industry and a strong grasp of developments in media and social networks.

The media has an important responsibility to explain realities, inform public opinion and promote accurate news and information, Bovard said, stressing that this mission should be pursued in accordance with professional and ethical standards.

Bovard said he was ready to support measures needed to strengthen media and public relations in the oil industry.

“We will provide whatever support is needed to establish new mechanisms and make media activities more agile, dynamic and responsive,” he said.