He emphasized that both the public and government agencies—the largest consumers of energy—must adopt conservation habits, which also requires sustained attention.  

According to the official website of the Leader’s office, Ayatollah Khamenei made these remarks Tuesday during his first meeting of the new year with senior officials from the three branches of government. 

He described follow-through as the missing link in achieving national goals and called for a unified effort to realize the year’s slogan: "Boosting Production Through Smart Management and People’s Participation."  

The Leader cautioned against excessive optimism or pessimism regarding the outcomes of Oman-mediated negotiations, stressing that Iran must accelerate progress in all fields regardless of diplomatic talks.  

Ayatollah Khamenei noted that follow-up efforts are more critical than decision-making itself, stating, "The country has sound laws, regulations and necessary plans, but a lack of follow-through hinders their proper implementation."  

While praising the enthusiasm of officials, he said their decisions often lose momentum due to insufficient follow-up within the administrative hierarchy.  

Energy conservation and economic priorities  

The Leader described energy conservation as a fundamental necessity, urging both citizens and government bodies—the biggest energy consumers—to adopt frugal habits, which also require continuous monitoring.  

He called for increased investment in production, stating it would help resolve many economic challenges. The Economy Ministry, Central Bank of Iran and other relevant bodies must direct capital and liquidity toward productive investments, he added.  

Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized securing investment protections and removing obstacles for businesses, calling production investments "honorable work." 

He said domestic investment growth would also attract foreign investors.  

Foreign policy and negotiations  

The Leader highlighted the importance of expanding ties with neighboring countries, Asian and African economic hubs and other nations, noting that changing certain bureaucratic practices requires persistent follow-up.  

He praised the president’s diplomatic engagements and the Foreign Ministry’s efforts but cautioned against linking national progress to ongoing Oman-mediated talks. "The mistake made during the JCPOA—tying everything to negotiations—must not be repeated," he said, referring to the 2015 nuclear deal.  

Ayatollah Khamenei stressed that industrial, economic, infrastructure and cultural projects must proceed without delay, regardless of diplomatic talks. While acknowledging the careful approach taken so far, he expressed skepticism toward the opposing side in negotiations but confidence in Iran’s capabilities.  

Domestic and regional issues  

The Leader called for strict implementation of the Seventh Development Plan, emphasizing its alignment with national policies.  

He also condemned the "unprecedented crimes" of the "Zionist criminal gang" in Gaza, citing deliberate attacks on hospitals, ambulances, journalists, women and children. He urged greater unity among Muslim nations in political, economic and, if necessary, operational responses but affirmed that divine justice would ultimately punish the oppressors.  

Earlier in the meeting, First Vice President Mohammadreza Aref outlined government plans to improve economic growth, employment, inflation control, income distribution and energy sector reforms. 

He reported progress in livelihood improvements, educational equity and foreign cooperation over the past seven months.