Addressing the First Conference of Legal Council of Oil Industry on Monday, Mohammad Dehqan added the enormous number of sanctions had worried some managers in the previous government, but the 13th administration dealt with disappointment by making great efforts in the oil and gas industry.

Iran’s oil exports had drastically decreased during the last months of the previous administration, recalled the VP, saying, “Now, oil is regularly exported despite beefed-up sanctions and escalated regional conflicts.”

Although Iran’s relations with the United States and the West have not improved, the oil industry has helped solve many domestic problems and settle economic issues.

He pointed to the Leader’s remarks about economic stagnation and lack of investment in the oil and gas industry during the 2010s and said the 13th administration did not tie the industry to the JCPOA revival and managed it well in the absence of foreigners, as the industry enjoys necessary expertise, manpower, and enough experience to develop.

Dehqan also mentioned economic leap is not possible without leap in the oil and gas industry, calling for giving first priority to the industry for domestic development.