Vice President: Iran’s artificial intelligence policy led by science, technology office

Iran’s Vice President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, Hossein Afshin, announced new policy initiatives in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing that his office is the main authority for drafting and approving AI strategies in the country.

Speaking to Peivast news outlet during a visit marking National Journalists’ Day, Afshin said the Vice Presidency writes AI policies and submits them through relevant legal channels.

He stressed that developing unicorn companies is not a direct government function but a market-driven process linked to emerging technologies.

Afshin highlighted the need for problem-oriented AI education and timely training for top talent, noting that infrastructure such as high-speed internet is essential for progress.
While Iran has the scientific and human resources needed, he said, infrastructure gaps remain a major challenge.

According to Afshin, neighboring countries have invested around $20 billion in AI, whereas Iran’s spending rose from under $100 million until last year to about $800 million today.

He also revealed that the government’s “Presidential AI Assistant” project is an open-source tool owned by the state, designed to ensure government agencies become early adopters of domestic AI products.