Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi – February 5, 1983

I stayed home all day. I rested and caught up on reading and writing several days' worth of overdue diary entries. I spoke with Mr. Behzad Nabavi about the copper by-product industries. The people of Kerman and Kerman's representatives are worried that these industries will be moved from Kerman to another place. It became clear that their assessment concluded that Yazd is the best location, Kerman second, Isfahan third, and Saveh fourth; because the closer they are to the source of raw materials or to the country's industries, the more they save on transporting materials or products. On the other hand, Yazd Province lacks agricultural potential, and the government has not invested there, although there are many private-sector industries.

I also spoke with the Minister of Defense about the naval commander's mission to Libya and about purchasing weapons. In the afternoon, I contacted the front regarding the preparations we need to make. I spoke using a code that had been agreed upon in advance. I also spoke with Mr. President about the report that our aircraft had entered Saudi airspace; he had requested an explanation from the Air Force and had also issued a warning for the future.

Mr. [Mohammad] Khatami, the Minister of Islamic Guidance, said that Imam had summoned him and said that some of the instructors at the Qom Seminary say they want to publish a book by Mr. Motahhari on economics that does not represent his definitive views. I said it had been decided that I would also read the book and give my opinion. Dr. Saeed [Lahouti] came wearing a soldier's uniform. I recorded a tape answering the questions from the Ayandeh Sazan publication.