The Governor of East Azerbaijan Province announced that a proposal to establish Iran National Gold Company with the province as its centre has been submitted to the President, following discussion of 72 mining-related topics at a provincial mining council meeting, IRNA reported on July 17.

Iran's domestic gold production is around 7,000 kilogrammes (7 metric tonnes) annually as of 2024, with production relatively stable in recent years but limited by underinvestment in exploration and mining.

Bahram Sarmast said during the provincial mining council meeting that the provincial management takes a scientific and expert approach to mining issues, with mining matters first being carefully examined in technical committees before being presented to the mining council for final decision-making.

"Based on our belief in expert work, 72 mining topics were discussed in today's meeting and necessary decisions were made on all of them," Sarmast said.

The Governor described East Azerbaijan as one of the country's important mining provinces, noting that provincial management focuses particularly on mining economy due to the diversity and extent of the province's mines.

"Mine development is an important factor in improving people's quality of life," Sarmast said, adding that organising mining affairs and protecting public treasury, especially in rural and underprivileged areas, plays a key role in balanced urban and rural development.

Sarmast identified completing the value chain in mines, particularly in the copper sector, as a major provincial priority, noting that the most important mining priority is completing the value chain in Sungun copper mine and developing related projects.

"The province's macro development approach is defined based on mining economy, and copper holds a special position in this regard," he said.

The Governor addressed unauthorised mining drilling, describing it as "looting of public treasury" that has been largely organised through direct presidential orders and implementation measures.

Sarmast concluded by announcing the important proposal to the President: "The suggestion to form Iran National Gold Company has been presented to the President so that this company can be launched with East Azerbaijan as its centre and name."

He said the plan aims to organise existing gold mines in the province and exploit this God-given wealth in a principled manner, which will undoubtedly be an effective step towards sustainable development and enhancing the province's economic position.