In a message the oil minister’s statement read: 

“The past cold season posed a severe challenge for the oil industry, as winter arrived earlier than expected and the new government was in its initial phase. Meanwhile, the country’s demand for fuel and energy peaked, while power plant fuel storage capacity—due to various reasons—was at its lowest. 

“Yet, what unfolded demonstrated the splendor of cooperation, hard work, and day-and-night efforts to supply energy across managerial, frontline, and administrative levels in the massive oil industry. 

“A 30-million-cubi-meter increase in gas production, refining and distributing over 1 billion cubic meters of clean energy nationwide, an 11 million-liter rise in diesel output, and an 8-million-liter boost in gasoline production were just some outcomes of these efforts this winter, which earned praise from the respected president. 

“I hereby express gratitude to all dedicated colleagues across the country in NIOC, NIGC, NIORDC, NIOPDC, and NPC, as well as all esteemed administrative staff. I pray to the Almighty for your continued success in serving the advancement of our Islamic homeland.”