Khamenei orders creation of ‘economy of resistance’

Ayatollah calls for measure to counter Western sanctions as nuclear talks resume in Vienna

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on stage during a meeting with Iranian air force commanders in Tehran, in a photo released February 8, 2014. (AFP/HO/Iranian Supreme Leader's website)
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on stage during a meeting with Iranian air force commanders in Tehran, in a photo released February 8, 2014. (AFP/HO/Iranian Supreme Leader's website)

TEHRAN — Iran’s top leader has ordered the government to create an “economy of resistance” to counter sanctions imposed over Tehran’s nuclear program.

In comments posted on his website leader.ir on Wednesday, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called Western sanctions “a full-fledged economic war” and said Iran is determined to force the West to retreat.

The program requires the government to diversify Iran’s exports, reduce dependence on sales of raw materials and promote knowledge-based high-tech industries.

A nuclear deal reached in November with world powers has eased some sanctions but the core remains in place — including measures targeting Iran’s oil exports, the pillar of its economy. Iran and the six-nation group began talks for a final deal in Vienna Tuesday. Khamenei says he doubts talks will succeed.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press.

Most Popular
read more:
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.