Speaking at a joint meeting of leaders and officials from the three branches of government hosted by the presidency on Monday, Qalibaf stated, “I believe raising energy prices is neither the first nor the only solution”.

Qalibaf described energy as a national asset and noted that, according to the Seventh Development Plan, 2.8% of the targeted 8% economic growth is expected to be achieved through improved efficiency.

“We must approach energy with a focus on productivity. If we all work together, we can reach this goal. The government is determined to achieve this, and the Parliament and judiciary will support the government in this effort. This will not only improve productivity but also address institutional issues and consumption patterns, create investment opportunities, and reduce costs,” he said.

He reiterated that the goal of optimizing energy use is not to make it more expensive. “If price adjustments are ever considered for optimization, the primary beneficiaries should be the people, followed by the government and the system. This is also the intention of the government and other branches of power,” Qalibaf added.

The Speaker pledged Parliament’s full support to the government, stating, “I personally assure you that Parliament stands fully behind the government. We believe sufficient laws exist for an economic leap, but if new legislation is needed, we will act swiftly. If any part of the Seventh Development Plan requires amendments, we will promptly address it once a consensus is reached.”