The Chairman of the Digital Economy Committee in the Iranian Parliament has responded to statements made by the managing director of the Kayhan newspaper regarding online platforms. He suggests that it would be better for the government to delegate responsibility in this area to the private sector and refrain from hostile behavior towards these platforms, which have contributed to growth and development.
In response to recent comments made by Hossein Shariatmadari, the managing director of Keyhan newspaper, about changes in the ownership of startups, Morteza Tavangar, the Chairman of the Digital Economy Committee in the Iranian Parliament, was one of the individuals who reacted strongly. In a letter addressed to Shariatmadari, Tavangar wrote: “Just as with the invention of the steam engine and electric motor, a multitude of products and services based on them developed over several decades and influenced subsequent technologies, in the field of information technology and the growing use of digital platforms, this ‘technological dependency’ has also emerged. It is unfair to highlight only the negative aspects of this remarkable reception while ignoring its valuable achievements.”
Tavangar believes that private sector management is more efficient than the government sector. Therefore, he suggests that the government should focus on governance-related matters such as policymaking and supervision and delegate operational responsibilities to the private sector.
In another part of the letter from the Chairman of the Digital Economy Committee in the Iranian Parliament, he discusses the achievements of digital platforms in the current conditions of the country. He questions why these platforms, despite their valuable contributions, are treated as rivals rather than allies, leading to a confrontational approach that appears as if they are standing against global hegemonic powers. He asks whether these businesses, as professional entities, have committed any wrongdoing that warrants such an aggressive response.
Tavangar points out that businesses have always been responsive to the needs of security, law enforcement, and regulatory authorities, often obtaining various licenses. He questions whether these businesses have truly dissatisfied and burdened the government with masses of complaints and protests among users and consumers. He also asks whether they have caused the closure of traditional industries and businesses without providing better alternatives. He emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding and effective policymaking in response to modern advancements.
In essence, Tavangar highlights the bitter reality that has gripped a portion of the governing system, suggesting a lack of timely understanding and appropriate policy responses to the fast-paced changes in the digital landscape.
The statements made by the newspaper “Keyhan” regarding the ownership of startups have elicited strong reactions from technology ecosystem activists as well as the Ministry of Communications. The Minister of Communications stated that these remarks were personal opinions and not endorsed by the government, emphasizing that they should not be taken seriously. Additionally, in a statement, these comments were described as lacking expertise, and it was pointed out that such matters would result in nothing but a halt to economic growth and capital flight from the country.
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