In his message, Shahmirzaei paid tribute to the martyrs, veterans, and
all who defended Iran during the eight-year conflict, saying, "On this
occasion, I proudly announce on behalf of the petrochemical industry that we
stand side by side with the warriors of that era. Today, we are fully present
on the battlefield of economic warfare, and we will not allow the sacrifices of
the past to be diminished. Empowered by the blood of martyrs, we will continue
to strive for the honor and dignity of Islamic Iran."
Shahmirzaei highlighted that the petrochemical industry, one of the
country’s key economic pillars, has been a testament to the spirit of
resilience. "Forty-four years of resistance, self-sufficiency, and perseverance
against economic sanctions have strengthened our resolve," he said. He
emphasized that the achievements in Iran's petrochemical sector, in the face of
external pressures, serve as a modern-day extension of the country's Sacred
Defense.
The week, which commemorates the beginning of the Iran-Iraq War in
1980, is seen as a symbol of Iranian unity and defiance. Shahmirzaei's message
echoed this sentiment, underscoring that the values from the war era—courage,
faith, and resistance—are still deeply embedded in Iran’s struggle against
international sanctions and economic pressure.
"Today, global arrogance, led by the United States, has once
again shown hostility toward the Iranian people, prioritizing the interests of
the ruling elite over the needs of their own citizens and others
worldwide," Shahmirzaei said. He noted that despite facing over four
decades of sanctions, Iran has made significant strides, particularly in
achieving self-reliance in various scientific and industrial fields, including
petrochemicals.
Shahmirzaei concluded his statement by remembering the late Commander
Qassem Soleimani, a symbol of Iran's defiance against foreign aggression, and
reiterated his commitment to supporting the Iranian people through economic
resilience. He extended his congratulations to the Supreme Leader and the
people of Iran on the occasion of Sacred Defense Week.
Sacred Defense Week holds a prominent place in Iran’s national
consciousness, symbolizing not only the physical defense of the country but
also the spiritual and ideological perseverance that continues to define Iran’s
policies today.