Economic Isolation: A Barrier to International Investment and Knowledge‑Based Development

According to the Khorasan Razavi Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, Ali‑Mohammad Shariati‑Moghaddam, Chairman of the Commission for Knowledge‑Based Businesses, Digital Economy, and Artificial Intelligence at the Mashhad Chamber, spoke online during this session, emphasizing that a significant part of a company’s success depends on its internal structure and the spirit of innovation that drives it.
He stated that this internal strength and innovative mindset are key enablers for attracting international investment, highlighting that reinforcing internal structures and focusing on innovation are necessary prerequisites for benefiting from global opportunities.
Criticizing the country’s decision‑making system, Shariati‑Moghaddam stressed the need for a clear understanding of the damages caused by separation from the international economic system.
“The national decision‑making apparatus must recognize,” he said, “how disengagement from global economic networks causes substantial losses to both the national economy and the private and public sectors.”
Describing Iran’s current economic situation as isolated, he added:
“In countries with open and liberalized economies—whether in our region or in advanced markets—attracting investment is among the easiest tasks for companies with strong foundations. In contrast, in Iran, securing international investment has become incredibly difficult, almost impossible.”
Knowledge‑Based Thinking: The Driving Spirit of Economic Activity
Shariati‑Moghaddam emphasized that the knowledge‑based approach must become the guiding spirit behind all commercial and industrial activities in the country.
“We believe,” he continued, “that every industry must evolve into a knowledge‑based one to achieve true international competitiveness. This is a fundamental national strategy—and naturally, it requires us to avoid isolation and embrace global cooperation.”
Original Title: Economic Isolation: A Barrier to International Investment and Knowledge‑Based Development
Source: Khorasan Razavi Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture
Publication Date: September 15, 2025
Original Link: https://news.mccima.com/59814/











