Regarding importing gas from Turkmenistan, Paknejad said that currently, we do not import natural gas from the neighboring country but preliminary negotiations have been started to do so, adding: We have no debts regarding gas imports from Turkmenistan.

Paknejad stated that during cold days, 80% of the country’s total gas consumption occurs in the residential sector, adding that we have always imported petroleum products, both gasoline, and diesel, as needed, and imports continue from both the north and south of the country.

He pointed out the measures taken by the Ministry of Petroleum to prevent natural gas shortages during the cold season, stating: In certain cold days, as much as 80% of the country’s total natural gas production is consumed in the residential sector, and there is a readiness to use other alternative fuels to ensure that other sectors face minimal difficulties.

In response to a question about plans to counteract intensified oil sanctions following Trump’s presidency, Paknejad said: We do not differentiate between Biden or Trump in dealing with sanctions, and considering the tested strategies and valuable experiences in this area, we do not have serious concerns. He continued: Oil industry employees will take necessary measures according to potential situations and limitations, and through our actions, we will prevent any issues that might worry the public.

The Minister of Petroleum welcomed private sector investment in the establishment of small refineries, stating that creating these small refineries, also known as mini-refineries, is among the policies we seek to implement, and we welcome private sector investment in this area as well.