National AI Plan Approved by Parliament’s Industries Commission

The general framework and details of Iran's National Artificial Intelligence Plan were approved on Sunday, April 19, 2025 (Farvardin 31, 1404) by the Industries and Mines Commission of the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Iranian Parliment).

Mostafa Taheri, head of the Communications and Information Technology Committee of the commission, stated: "This plan was among the key approvals today, which was finalized after eight months of review. Its report will now be sent to the open session of Parliament for final approval."

According to the parliamentarian, the plan establishes the "National Artificial Intelligence Organization" as the strategic body in this field, operating under the direct supervision of the President. Four main areas of activity have been defined for this organization.

Elaborating on the organization's responsibilities, Taheri added: "Its missions will include leadership, goal-setting, and coordination among relevant entities such as the Ministry of Communications, the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology, the Innovation Fund, the Ministry of Science, and the Ministry of Education."

He further emphasized: "The organization will play a pivotal role in training specialized human resources, data management (the foundation of AI), processor development, strategic studies, and formulating AI governance regulations."

Responding to criticisms about "potential overlap with the Ministry of Communications," Taheri explained: "After reviewing global models, it was decided to establish a cross-sectoral body under the President's supervision to maintain comprehensive oversight of all governmental and sovereign sectors. Fortunately, these explanations were accepted by officials."

Following approval by the Industries Commission, the plan will soon be presented to the open session of Parliament to complete the final stages of becoming law.