Farhad Shahroki, representative of the people of Sistan and Vice Chairman of the Energy Commission of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, raised the necessity of selecting a specialized minister for the Ministry of Oil in a letter to the President. He emphasized that the selection of the Minister of Oil should be based on competence and operational experience to safeguard national interests and economic stability in the current sensitive conditions.
Challenges of the Oil Industry and the Necessity of Selecting a Specialized Minister
Shahroki stated in his letter to President Pezeshkian that the Iranian oil industry is facing difficulties, including structural, technical, economic, and international challenges. He stressed that the selection of the Minister of Oil should be considered a strategic decision whose effects will extend beyond a single term of responsibility and will impact the future of energy production and the country's foreign revenues.
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The Vice Chairman of the Energy Commission of the Parliament stated that the Ministry of Oil is not just an executive body, but is responsible for a complex chain of exploration, development, and production of hydrocarbon reservoirs, refining and processing, transportation and distribution of products, international energy trade, and management of the country's strategic assets. This administration requires a manager with authority and expertise in reservoir engineering, energy economics, oil law and contracts, project financing, and energy diplomacy.
The Necessity of Merit-Based Selection and Accountability
Shahroki added: "The future Minister of Oil must possess financial and administrative integrity, professional independence, and decision-making ability." He also emphasized that selecting a minister from among distinguished and clean managers, without regard to political and factional considerations, can help strengthen the trust of the expert community and ensure the continuity of strategic projects.
Shahroki further pointed to the importance of effectively implementing the provisions of the Seventh Development Plan and the need for a manager familiar with the technical, economic, and legal requirements of the oil industry. Selection from within the industry should not lead to the reproduction of closed management loops or the continuation of ineffective practices.
In conclusion, Farhad Shahroki urged the President to prioritize experienced and qualified managers in the selection of the Minister of Oil and to base this selection on performance records and the ability to present a scientific, operational, and measurable program. This approach can send a clear message of the government's commitment to meritocracy and prioritizing national interests over short-term considerations.
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