A group of intellectuals and elites of Semnan Province and a number of executive officials as well as the representatives of the province in the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majlis) met the Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei on Friday, November 10.
Speaking at the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei described the Iranian nation as a nation that brings up elites and intellectuals. He stated that Islamic Iran is quite different from what the country was under the Qajar or Pahlavi rule, and that Islamic Iran is expected to reach the summit of human civilization.
"Because of their adherence to Islam and their deep faith as well as their remarkable talent and aptitude, the Iranian people deserve to attain a high status on the global scene," the Leader observed.
Pointing to the fact that many elites and intellectuals in different parts of the country are not in the spotlight, Ayatollah Khamenei noted that the holding of meetings at which elites and intellectuals can express their views should become a regular happening. He added that it is the responsibility of government officials to sponsor and hold such meetings.
Further in his statements, the Leader of the Islamic Republic compared the country's present situation and its condition before the victory of the Islamic Revolution, stressing that the country has made considerable progress in many spheres in the post-revolution era.
"Despite the many positive measures that have been taken in the country in the post-revolution era, the country still has great potential that should be realized," Ayatollah Khamenei told the audience. He stated that the Iranian people, with their remarkable talent and great capabilities, are able to rank among the most scientifically advanced nations in the world.
At the beginning of the meeting, the governor-general of Semnan Province Hamid Haji-Abdulvahhab presented a report on the development projects and the requirements of the province.
He said that providing opportunities for investment in industrial, agricultural and research sectors and the fair distribution of facilities with the intention of creating more jobs are among the top priorities of the province.