In a message issued on Monday, coinciding with the martyrdom anniversary of Lady Fatimah Zahra (peace be upon her), the Leader addressed Iran’s scientific and sports medalists.
Ayatollah Khamenei congratulated the Iranian people on the recent successes in various scientific Olympiads—including astronomy, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, artificial intelligence, and humanities—as well as their triumphs in international sports arenas.
“The motivation and hope of our elites to bring about changes in the country is a bright flame I have witnessed, both from near and afar, over the course of many years and decades.”
The Leader specifically praised the hardworking athletes for showcasing to the world Iran’s vitality and strength, highlighting the role of female athletes who “make the honorable symbol of the Iranian women’s attire shine before the world.”
‘Engine of national strength’
Defining the true nature of an elite, the Leader said, “The distinguished elite aren’t people who, merely by virtue of possessing a notable amount of talent and intelligence, regard themselves as somehow set apart from others and who only think of their own fleeting, personal desires.”
“An elite is someone who is deeply concerned with developing their abilities, sees themselves as an effective member of society, and uses their talent and potential for the advancement of themselves and their society alike.”
Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to the tangible impact of Iranian elites in solving real-world problems. “The Iranian elites have demonstrated that knowledge and talent can be turned into tools for addressing the real problems facing the people and the country.”
“From stem cell research, nanotechnology, and biotechnology to advanced aerospace technologies and technologies in industry, mining, medicine, agriculture, nuclear energy, and infrastructure, they have consistently sought to put their knowledge, scientific expertise, and abilities to practical use.”
“We’re all seeing the tangible effects and manifestations of this progressive movement in our daily lives.”
The Leader cited electricity generated by Iranian turbines, knowledge-based desalination plants, agricultural drones, advanced technologies at the Royan Institute, as well as radiopharmaceuticals, remote-sensing satellites, and groundbreaking advancements in the defense and military sectors.
Condemning ‘neo-colonial’ plots
“A strong Iran depends on scientific and technological power, and this core pillar is one of the most important factors for shaping Iran’s role in the emerging global equations and the new world order.”
The Leader pointed to the hostility of Iran’s enemies, noting that their crimes are a testament to the pivotal role the elites play in maintaining Iran’s power.
“The same enemy that has assassinated our society’s prominent scientists and the influential elite during the Second and Third Imposed Wars – and of course, in academic settings and in their everyday lives years prior to that – cannot bear to see Iran advance and grow stronger.”
