Pakistan’s peaceful nuclear programme has won fresh recognition from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), with Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi praising the country’s steady progress and close cooperation with the Agency.

In a social media post following his meeting with Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar, on the sidelines of the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Grossi said Pakistan’s nuclear power programme is advancing “at a good pace,” particularly with the ongoing construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-5 (C-5).

The IAEA chief recalled witnessing the first concrete pouring at the site in February 2025, calling it a “major milestone” in Pakistan’s drive to strengthen energy security through clean and sustainable nuclear power.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed cooperation in key IAEA initiatives, including Atoms4Food, which applies nuclear technology to boost crop yields, ensure food safety, and combat pests, and Rays of Hope, which expands access to nuclear medicine and radiotherapy for cancer treatment across the Asia-Pacific region.

Grossi commended Pakistan’s active role in capacity-building, training, and the use of nuclear science for socio-economic development, noting that Islamabad remains an “important partner” in advancing peaceful nuclear applications worldwide.

Dr Anwar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful uses of nuclear technology in line with national development priorities and global safety standards.

He emphasised that Pakistan’s nuclear power plants contribute significantly to the country’s energy mix by providing reliable, low-carbon electricity, while PAEC’s initiatives align closely with the IAEA’s vision of promoting nuclear technology for peace, health, and prosperity.

The meeting also highlighted Pakistan’s contributions to regional cooperation, particularly in the Asia-Pacific, where its expertise in nuclear applications is being shared with other member states.

Pakistan reiterated its resolve to continue working with the IAEA and its partners to strengthen peaceful nuclear cooperation, sustainable development, and quality of life across the region.