Mostafa Nakhaei emphasized the importance of investment in the oil industry, stating: "Although legal frameworks have been established under the Seventh Development Plan and necessary permits have been issued for private sector involvement in energy-intensive industries, the main obstacle to attracting investment is not a legal gap but a need to shift attitudes toward the private sector."

He added: "The government must transition from a controlling role to a facilitating one and treat the private sector as a genuine partner. A contractor-based approach will not resolve issues—managers must consider real collaboration with this sector."

The Energy Committee member stressed that hosting investment events in oil and gas could help introduce opportunities and attract investors. "Given the presence of shared oil and gas fields, more investment is needed to boost production. Therefore, capable and willing private investors should be allowed to participate in this sector."

On the issue of energy imbalance, Nakhaei said: "A major part of the problem stems from the gap between production and consumption. Addressing this requires both increasing production and reducing consumption. Undoubtedly, by promoting investment opportunities and attracting investors, production challenges can be resolved."

He noted that investment opportunities in energy efficiency and market optimization should also be considered, adding that Parliament has already laid the groundwork for private sector involvement and investment in reducing consumption.

Nakhaei concluded: "Ensuring investment security and changing mindsets in this sector is crucial. By creating favorable conditions for private sector participation and attracting investors, we can achieve increased production, reduced energy imbalance, and sustainable development for the country."