💰 Iran’s $2–3 Billion Claims on Venezuela: Four Decades of Investments Lost
Iran’s economic engagement with Venezuela over the past 40 years reads more like a case study in political investment rather than economic return . From oil and gas development to car assembly plants, construction projects, and technological cooperation, Iran has pledged billions of dollars. Yet, most projects remain incomplete, delayed, or lost amidst Venezuela’s political and economic crises. Energy and oil: Investments in the Orinoco oil fields, refinery upgrades, and fuel shipments. Estimated investment: $1.5–2 billion , largely unrealized in economic returns. Industries: Car and tractor assembly, cement plants, and consumer goods factories. Production and profitability have been minimal. Housing and construction: Tens of thousands of residential units promised, most left unfinished. Technology and services: Fiber optics plants and innovation centers mostly symbolic, with limited tangible economic outcomes. Credit lines and direct investment: Total of $2–3 billion , much...