Abedzadeh made the remarks on the sidelines of Aero Persia Exhibition, the first International Air Industry Exhibition, on Friday in Tehran, adding “we are not yet informed of the expanse of these sanctions and have to wait for the result of Washington's decisions. But what matters is that everyone has now realized who is after hindering Iran’s constructive interactions with the world.”
Abedzadeh was referring to the recent move by US President Trump in approving the Congress bill on applying new anti-Iran sanctions and prohibiting sales of new aircraft to the the Islamic Republic.
"The world has recognized Iran as a country which seeks productive and constructive cooperation with the world; however, if certain countries decide to interfere with this development, we will respond accordingly," he stressed.
Abedzadeh went on to add, “we have always endured the most severe sanctions. We have carried this heavy burden both before and after the war, but we managed to move forward in spite of it all. Today, we have the highest number of air travels in the region and the average growth rate of transporting passengers in domestic flights have doubled; this index is 3 to 4 percent higher than the average of the region."
CAO’s head also called on an efficient utilizing of the country's high capacity and vast potential. "Iranian specialists have proved that they excel at managing Iran’s aviation industry in the best possible way," he added.
Pointing to the infrastructures for aviation industry, he said “we have the capability to design and manufacture aircraft and helicopters which is very valuable and has been accomplished through years of study by our researchers, leading to Iranian companies’ competence in overhaul and maintenance of aircraft.”
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