Lawmakers voted on Wednesday to keep Agriculture Minister Mahmoud Hojjati in office after he faced an impeachment trial over his mismanagement of resources meant to support farmers and overhaul the key sector.
Out of the 229 parliamentarians present, 105 backed the no-confidence motion and 117 voted against. Seven lawmakers abstained, ICANA reported.
The minister had been accused of failing to reduce unnecessary imports of agriculture products, find new export markets and promote modern cultivation techniques and technologies to preserve natural resources.
The vote had also been called over his lack of plans for investment in infrastructure and machinery, disregard for inflation in pricing staple foods such as wheat, insufficient support for the country's nomads, slow progress in tackling the issue of dust storms and limited support for exporters of agriculture products.
Hojjati defended himself in the impeachment proceeding, saying that official statistics show the agriculture sector has registered a positive growth rate over the past five years.
All the ministry's decisions are in line with the government's policies, he said, adding, "Our view is to utilize the potential that exists inside the country despite all the obstacles, including water scarcity and drought."
***Food Security
He noted that extensive efforts have been made under his watch to contribute to economic and security development through ensuring food security, sustainable production and self-sufficiency in staple foods.
In addition, Hojjati dismissed the criticism that he has failed to discourage unnecessary imports of products that could be substituted locally.
Authorities in charge are closely monitoring all imports into the country, he said, adding that local production has increased in recent years.
The minister also said the use of modern methods and equipment has helped increase the efficiency of water use in agriculture and decrease the amount of water used by the industry.
"We hope that we can achieve greater success through closer interaction with international research centers, application of modern knowledge and technology as well as the support of the administration and the Majlis," Hojjati stated."
