Iran sees sanctions in a positive light

TEHRAN, April 7 (UPI) -- Economic pressure on the Iranian energy sector is an opportunity for the country to become self-sufficient in gasoline, ministers said.

Western pressure on Tehran for its controversial nuclear program has persuaded several major oil and gas companies to stop doing business with Iran.

Iranian Oil Minister Masoud Mir Kazemi told the semiofficial Mehr News Agency that his country viewed the latest developments in a positive light.

"The oil sanctions against Iran have actually turned out to serve as an opportunity for the country," he said.

The minister said his country under emergency plans could meet its domestic gasoline needs by producing 3.7 million gallons per day "if the country finds it necessary."

Tehran said that as of March 21, it would reduce the volume of gasoline offered at a discount to 15 gallons per vehicle per month in an effort to curb consumption.

Iranian officials said the restrictions would last for three months but could be extended.

Kazemi said the Western effort to target what is described as Iran's Achilles' heel would not work.

"The rhetoric of sanctions on gasoline against Iran has become an ineffective threat," he said.