Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 8

By Khalid Kazimov - Trend:

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on the country's senior officials to join efforts to strengthen the economy, Khamenei's official website reported Feb. 8.

He made the remarks addressing a gathering of the commanders and staff of the army's air force on the occasion of the "Ten Days of Dawn", marking the 37th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, when the late revolution leader Ayatollah Khomeini returned to Iran after almost 15 years of exile.

"Strengthening the country's economy will lead to elimination of the economic problems, such as unemployment, recession and inflation," Khamenei said during the meeting.

Khamenei further called on the officials to divert resources from imports to domestic production, saying it is a shame that such a large country as Iran imports fruits.

He also urged the country's high-ranking officials to refrain from engaging in electoral campaigns in favor or against any political groups.

Speaking about the upcoming elections for parliament and the Assembly of Experts, to be held in late February, the supreme leader said that a popular election brings honor to the country and makes people feel committed to participate in the election.