ISLAMABAD: Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has praised Pakistan for its progress in developing a peaceful nuclear program and its strong collaboration with the global agency, the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported Saturday.
Grossi made these remarks after meeting with Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), during the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna on Saturday.
He noted that Pakistan’s nuclear power program is advancing “at a good pace,” especially with the ongoing construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-5 (C-5). The director general recalled his visit to the site in February 2025, when the first concrete was poured, a key milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to enhance energy security through clean and sustainable nuclear power.
During the meeting, according to APP, Grossi and Anwar reviewed several areas of cooperation between the IAEA and Pakistan, focusing on initiatives like Atoms4Food, which uses nuclear technology to improve crop yields, food safety, and pest control. They also discussed the Rays of Hope program, which works to expand access to nuclear medicine and radiotherapy for cancer treatment across the Asia-Pacific region.
Grossi commended Pakistan for its active involvement in IAEA programs, particularly in capacity-building, training, and applying nuclear knowledge to socio-economic development. He emphasized that Pakistan continues to play a vital role in advancing the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology.
For his part, Chairman Anwar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology, in alignment with both national development priorities and IAEA frameworks. He emphasized that Pakistan’s nuclear power plants operate under the highest safety standards, contributing significantly to the national energy mix by providing reliable, low-carbon electricity. He added that PAEC’s efforts are closely aligned with the IAEA’s goals of promoting nuclear technology for peace, health, and prosperity.
The meeting also provided a platform to discuss Pakistan’s contributions to regional initiatives under the IAEA, particularly in the Asia-Pacific. Pakistan’s expertise in nuclear applications is being shared with other member states, furthering regional cooperation.
Pakistan reiterated its commitment to continuing cooperation with the IAEA and its member states, advancing peaceful nuclear initiatives, promoting sustainable development, and improving the quality of life for people across the region.
