Mehdi Samii, Head of the Central Bank during the Pahlavi period


In 1314, along with a group of Persians who were selected in the intelligence and talent test, he went to Britain to continue his education and went to school and university in Wales. Samii became the Governor of the Central Bank (Bank Markazi) in the 1960s, during a critical time when the country was experiencing both rapid oil revenue growth and pressures to modernize its economy. Strengthened monetary policy by introducing modern banking and regulatory frameworks.

Pushed for a disciplined approach to spending oil revenues, stressing long-term stability over short-term populism. Helped develop foreign exchange reserves and financial credibility in international markets. Unlike many policymakers who favored rapid industrialization without planning, Samii emphasized balanced growth and institution-building. He believed Iran’s oil wealth should be invested wisely in infrastructure, education, and long-term development, rather than fueling unsustainable consumption.

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