The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, has lauded Pakistan’s nuclear power program, noting that it is progressing at a steady and effective pace. His remarks came during the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, where he met with Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC).

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

During the meeting, both sides reviewed avenues of cooperation under various IAEA programs. Dr. Anwar reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology, highlighting that the country’s nuclear energy program is fully aligned with both national developmental priorities and the IAEA’s framework.

He emphasized that Pakistan’s nuclear power plants are operating under the highest safety standards, reflecting the country’s compliance with international protocols and its seriousness toward nuclear safety.

Pakistan’s Peaceful Nuclear Journey

Pakistan has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is aimed at peaceful purposes, including:

• Energy Security: Addressing growing power demands by diversifying energy sources.
• Health Sector: Using nuclear medicine in cancer treatment and diagnostic services.
• Agriculture: Applying nuclear techniques for crop improvement and pest control.
• Industrial Use: Enhancing productivity and material testing through nuclear applications.

The PAEC chairman stressed that nuclear energy is vital for Pakistan’s long-term sustainable development, particularly in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change.

IAEA Recognition and Milestones

DG Grossi commended Pakistan’s close cooperation with the IAEA and particularly recognized the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant C-5 project as a “significant milestone” for Pakistan’s energy security. The Chashma series of reactors, developed with international cooperation, has become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s nuclear power capacity.

Grossi further remarked that Pakistan is an important partner in the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology, and its contributions are increasingly relevant as the world looks toward sustainable and low-carbon energy sources.

Looking Ahead

The endorsement by the IAEA chief carries both technical and diplomatic weight for Pakistan. It not only boosts the credibility of its nuclear program internationally but also strengthens the case for expanding nuclear cooperation, possibly attracting further technological partnerships and investments.

Experts believe that Pakistan’s steady expansion of nuclear power capacity is essential to:

• Meet rising electricity demands of over 134 million registered voters and a population surpassing 240 million.
• Reduce the import bill associated with oil and LNG.
• Support industrial growth while curbing greenhouse gas emissions.

With global attention shifting to clean and reliable energy solutions, Pakistan’s nuclear program is poised to play a critical role in its future energy mix. The IAEA’s endorsement may also pave the way for enhanced collaboration in areas like nuclear safety training, reactor technology upgrades, and the peaceful application of nuclear science in multiple sectors.