Iran sets sight on productive agricultural towns to boost
marine economy

A national plan titled “productive agricultural towns” will
be implemented across the country in efforts to develop blue economy and
facilitate supply chain development, Iranian Agriculture Minister Mohammad Ali
Nikbakht announced.

“Five productive agricultural towns
will be established across the country as a part of national plan to develop
coastal economy and support fishery activities and aquaculture,” Nikbakht said
on Tuesday.

He added, “Agricultural development, water management and
animal husbandry are all facing difficulties due to the limitation of basic
resources, especially water, while the country has a lot of capacity in the
development of fisheries and aquaculture thanks to its marine resources and
wide coastlines. Therefore, the implementation of the plan will provide
exceptional opportunities for domestic and foreign investment”.

The minister said the sustainable use of ocean resources for
economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of
ocean ecosystem is a matter of significance.