Religious scholars explore economic potential of Sarakhs zone

A delegation of Shia and Sunni religious scholars from the provinces of Khorasan Razavi, North Khorasan, and South Khorasan visited key industrial sites in Sarakhs, including Shahid Hasheminejad gas refinery and Sarakhs Special Economic Zone (SEZ). 
The visit was organized under the auspices of Samen al-A’emmeh Base of the IRGC Ground Forces, in cooperation with local industrial authorities.
The scholars, participating in the “Path of Progress” initiative, expressed satisfaction with the region’s development and emphasized the role of industry in job creation, self-sufficiency, and improving public welfare. 
They called for stronger collaboration between public institutions, private investors, and religious communities to advance economic goals.
During a two-day conference held alongside the visit, IRGC commander Ghorban-Mohammad Ash’ari stressed: “National unity and reliance on domestic capabilities are the keys to success in defense and knowledge-based sectors”. 
He warned against divisive tactics used by foreign actors, urging vigilance against ethnic and sectarian provocations.
Mohammad-Reza Rajabi-Moghaddam, the CEO of SEZ, described the visit as “a symbol of religious solidarity and national cohesion”. 
He highlighted the zone’s strategic location along the East–West transit corridor, positioning it not only as a hub for economic growth but also as a bridge for cultural and commercial exchanges with neighboring countries.
“Engaging religious elites is essential for attracting investment and promoting industrial and transit development” Rajabi-Moghaddam stated. 
He noted that recent infrastructure upgrades—including expanded rail lines, operational warehouses, and logistical platforms—have been achieved through collective effort and domestic expertise. 
The CEO expressed hope that continued support from religious leaders and economic stakeholders would lead to sustainable prosperity for the region.