ran launches Mideast biggest energy exhibition

TEHRAN, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran kicked off a major energy exhibition in the capital Tehran on Saturday with the participation of 1,500 foreign companies from 37 countries.

The 22nd Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition is aimed at showcasing the country's latest technical achievements and attracting the foreign investments.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani said in the opening ceremony that the administration of president Hassan Rouhani has paid serious attention to development of oil and gas fields, according to Iran's Petro Energy information Network (SHANA).

"The administration of Rouhani has also kept strong focus on developing joint oilfields which is very important for the country's interests," Larijani was quoted as saying.

Iran's petrochemical sector also enjoys great potential which needs to be heeded.

The parliament speaker further voiced Iran's commitment to the nuclear deal reached between the Islamic republic and the six major world powers in July 2015.

The ongoing energy exhibition is considered as the biggest in the Middle East and major companies from China, the Netherlands, France, Britain, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Russia, Japan, South Korea and Australia will attend the event which will continue until May 9, 2017.

People visit Chinese companies booths at the 22nd Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition in Tehran, Iran, May 6, 2017. Iran kicked off a major energy exhibition in the capital Tehran on Saturday with the participation of 1,500 foreign companies. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz)

Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani speaks during the opening ceremony of the 22nd Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition in Tehran, Iran, May 6, 2017. Iran kicked off a major energy exhibition in the capital Tehran on Saturday with the participation of 1,500 foreign companies. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz)

People visit the 22nd Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition in Tehran, Iran, May 6, 2017. Iran kicked off a major energy exhibition in the capital Tehran on Saturday with the participation of 1,500 foreign companies. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz)

People visit the 22nd Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition in Tehran, Iran, May 6, 2017. Iran kicked off a major energy exhibition in the capital Tehran on Saturday with the participation of 1,500 foreign companies. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz)