Innovative Youth Drive Iran’s Future Economy, Says Post Bank CEO at INOTEX 2025

Tehran, May 9, 2025 – At the opening of the Iran International Innovation & Technology Exhibition (INOTEX) 2025, Dr. Behzad Shiri, CEO of Post Bank Iran, emphasized that young innovators and knowledge-based companies are the driving force behind the country’s future economic development, viewing the event as a hub for designing Iran’s economic blueprint.

Dr. Behzad Shiri, CEO of Post Bank Iran, spoke at the opening ceremony of INOTEX 2025 on May 9, articulating a visionary perspective on the exhibition. “I see INOTEX not merely as an annual event, but as a center for modeling, designing, and ideating the future of Iran’s economy. This future is powered by knowledge-based, technology-driven companies and innovative youth who, with courage and creativity, are paving new paths for economic progress,” he stated.

Highlighting the shift in development paradigms in the era of information technology, Shiri noted, “In the past, economic development was defined by gradual, step-by-step progress. Today, with the rapid pace of technological transformation, these models no longer suffice. We’ve entered an age where knowledge, innovation, and technology can drive development in a non-linear, exponential manner.”

He elaborated on Post Bank Iran’s role in supporting the digital economy, saying, “With over 6,500 branches and counters nationwide, Post Bank Iran holds a deep belief in technology’s role in development. We have redesigned our internal structure and tailored our financial tools and services to meet the needs of technology sector players and innovative companies.”

Shiri extended an invitation for collaboration, declaring, “Our hand of partnership is open to all idea holders, experts, and innovators in the technology field. We urge them to share their needs with us so we can support them through legal capacities, banking facilities, and specialized assistance, fostering the growth of Iran’s digital economy.”

In closing, he expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance, and other institutions supporting technological advancement in Iran. He also offered condolences for the tragic incident at Shahid Rajaei Port, wishing patience and peace to the affected families.

Cultural Council Secretary on Tradition and Modernity
Abdolhossein Khosropanah, Secretary of the Supreme Council of Cultural Revolution, spoke at the opening ceremony, addressing the connection between tradition and modernity, as well as wisdom and governance. He described INOTEX 2025 as a platform for ideation and technology commercialization, noting, “This year’s exhibition is more vibrant than ever, forging a novel link between tradition and modernity, wisdom and governance.”

Executive Secretary on Entrepreneur-Investor Engagement
Sajjad Rajabi, Executive Secretary of INOTEX, highlighted the achievements of Pardis Technology Park (PTP), the participation of 454 companies, and the importance of networking and investment in the innovation ecosystem. He announced 24 diverse events and efforts to boost interactions between entrepreneurs and investors, stating, “Events like the ‘Mentorship Pavilion’ and ‘Reverse Pitch’ are designed to connect large industries with knowledge-based companies.”

Quantum Computing’s Impact on AI at Future Station
At the “Future Station” event, Pouria Haddad, founder of Filager, discussed the significance of the quantum world and its impact on AI. “Quantum computers, using qubits, can process multiple data states simultaneously, unlike traditional bit-based systems, offering superior processing power. However, they require time and algorithm development for practical use, along with stable qubits supported by data, brainware, and processing power,” he explained.

INOTEX Stage Discussions
Ali Hazaveh, Deputy for Technology at PTP, spoke at the INOTEX Stage, noting that PTP’s status was upgraded to an Innovation District following last year’s resolution. He emphasized successful entrepreneurs’ role in inspiring youth, stating, “Their presence, with records of both failures and successes, can guide young people on the right path and inject new knowledge into society.” He described the park’s establishment as the realization of a dream, urging for a larger, more mature ecosystem.

Reza Ghiabi, Content Secretary of INOTEX 2025, discussed emerging technologies’ impact on startups like Snapp and Digikala, highlighting Iran’s high potential for foreign investment. He stressed the importance of startup ecosystems for the economy, noting, “Today’s youth, even without economic support, can drive society forward. Good negotiation and proper infrastructure can create new opportunities.”