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This article will be expanded soon.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
Iran has been elected Vice-Chair for the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, taking place from July 23-31 in Zimbabwe under the theme “Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future.” COP15 aims to adopt a strategic plan for 2025-2034. Three Iranian cities—Babol, Kiashahr, and Gandoman—received wetland city accreditation certificates for their commitment to conservation. The Ramsar Convention, active since 1975, now includes 173 members, promoting the wise use of wetlands. Recognizing urban wetlands is essential for enhancing public awareness and sustainable management, offering economic and environmental benefits.
The third Iran Med exhibition opened in Tehran, featuring around 300 companies from 35 countries, and will run until October 20. Supported by the ministries of health and industry, the event aims to promote innovation and sustainability in the medical equipment supply chain. Participants display a wide range of products, including dental tools, diagnostic equipment, and rehabilitation devices. Health Minister Mohammad-Reza Zafarqandi stressed the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in medical production, noting that Iran makes over 70% of its medical equipment domestically. The exhibition highlights Iran’s commitment to improving healthcare standards and fostering collaboration in the industry.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is working to enhance economic resilience and promote renewable energy in Iran, which has significant solar and wind potential. Iran aims to install 30,000 MW of renewable energy by 2030, despite facing challenges like high energy intensity. Key initiatives include an Energy Efficiency Certificate Framework, vocational training enhancements, and an Energy Monitoring Information System. The government plans to increase renewable power capacity by 3,500 MW next year, with a goal of adding 10,000 MW by 2025. These efforts not only reduce energy consumption but also create jobs, highlighting the economic benefits of clean energy.
Health Insurance Week in Iran will take place from October 25 to 31, focusing on the theme “Health insurance, national consensus for a healthier Iran.” This event raises awareness about health insurance’s role in protecting public health and financial stability, coinciding with the universal health coverage law enacted on October 25, 1994. Each day will highlight specific health insurance topics, including financial protection, disease prevention, and support for patients with rare illnesses. Over 50% of Iranians are currently insured, but improvements are needed in service quality. Iran is recognized for its healthcare advancements, including expanding access and maintaining high vaccination rates.
Brigadier General Hossein Zolfaqari, Secretary General of Iran’s Drug Control Headquarters, highlighted the detrimental effects of unfair sanctions on Iran’s ability to implement drug treatment and harm reduction programs during the 68th United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna. He noted that sanctions complicate drug control strategies amid the rise of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Zolfaqari called for enhanced international cooperation, technical assistance, and sharing of best practices. He urged for the restoration of collaborative initiatives, such as agreements with Afghanistan and Pakistan, and emphasized the need for funding to support regional drug control efforts effectively.
Mohammad Reza Mokhber Dezfouli, President of the Academy of Sciences of Iran, has written to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, urging the international community to condemn Israeli military actions against Iran. He highlighted the targeting of civilian areas, scientific institutions, medical facilities, and peaceful nuclear installations, asserting these acts violate international law and threaten global safety. Mokhber Dezfouli called for UN investigations into these breaches and emphasized the need to protect scientific and academic institutions. He warned that ignoring such aggression undermines the principles of justice and human dignity, urging nations to defend the pursuit of knowledge and peace.