National dialogue about Islamic-iranian Model of Progress necessary

The unveiling of the Islamic-iranian Model of Progress is an ideal opportunity to reinforce a national dialogue for the solution of national problems. Illustrating the 50-year vision of Iran in accordance with both the capacities of the country and national demands, the draft document includes several themes that can be critically studied through exchange of ideas about its different aspects.

Dialogue about the themes of the draft document requires the creation of a suitable atmosphere that both encourages the authorities and gains the trust of the public.

Naturally, dialogue can make sense only if various opinions are given a chance to present themselves, and in each case, the pros and cons are presented with no concrete or abstract barriers.

A dialogue can be useful and helpful if it encompasses serious criticisms so that it will be able to set the stage for proponents and opponents.

Undoubtedly, in our society, as a dynamic and growing one, there are different viewpoints and analyses regarding pivotal national issues that rules out the dominance of a single viewpoint.

A requisite for the country’s growth and healthy intellectual endeavor is exchange of views among Iranian authorities, analysts and theoreticians.

Taking the vast intellectual capacities into consideration, it is appropriate to regard the themes of the Islamic-iranian Model of Progress as a basis for national dialogue and invite the intellectuals and scholars to scrutinize it.

It is pertinent to bear in mind that the draft document was unveiled by the highest authority of Iran, the Leader of Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, on October 14 who also sent a letter to all Iranian organizations, ministries, universities and research centers, urging all officials, academics, experts and elites to review the draft document and help its development.

The Leader’s emphasis on contribution of experts to resolve the probable flaws and deficiencies and suggesting a two-year period for its finalization provide a good opportunity for a historic experience.

The intellectuals should take the opportunity and critically study the national roadmap that aims at materializing the ideals of the country in the long term.

The media too should play their role in preparing the grounds for ‘national dialogue about the Islamic-iranian Model of Progress.’

According to the draft document, Iran should be ranked among the fifth countries of the world in production of science and it should be among the ten big economies of the world until 2065 and Iran should be ranked among the four top countries of Asia and seven top countries of the world in terms of progress and justice.

The Islamic-iranian Model of Progress is expected to serve as the 2065 vision.

*Zia Hashemi is the Managing Director of the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA)