Tehran - Iran has reached a significant milestone in its agricultural sector, achieving complete self-sufficiency in the production of standard cotton seed, an official said.

Ghorban Ghorbani, head of the Cotton Research Institute of Iran, announced the achievement, stating, "We are now producing 100% of the standard cotton seed required by our country."

Looking ahead, Ghorbani revealed plans to export surplus cotton seed, further strengthening Iran's position in the global agricultural market.

In a related development, the Cotton Research Institute, in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Organization, unveiled two new cotton varieties named "Fakhr" (Pride) and "Jahesh" (Leap). These innovative varieties are expected to enhance cotton yields and quality.

The announcement coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization, a testament to the organization's enduring contribution to Iran's agricultural progress

This year, cotton cultivation in Iran has expanded, with 85,000 hectares of agricultural land nationwide and 12,000 hectares in Golestan Province dedicated to cotton production.