IRNA � Auto production grew by 70% in Iran last year in spite of all the economic and psychological pressures by the foreign enemies, said Iran�s Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade Reza Rahmani on Friday.

Speaking during a meeting in Ilam with the Supreme Leader�s representative in southwestern province of Ilam, the minister said that the increase in auto production was registered while the country was under the toughest economic restrictions.

The enemies, who imposed psychological and economic pressure on Iran, aimed to paralyze the production cycle, including the auto industry, Rahmani said. He, however, noted that they failed to do so with the prudence of the Iranian officials in the light of support from the nation.

The minister said that reducing imports of auto spare parts from foreign countries is one of the main agendas of the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade.

At present, some 15 Iranian provinces are producing high quality auto spare parts which are much more economically efficient compared to those produced in foreign countries, Rahmani added.