Islamabad: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Rafael Mariano Grossi recently concluded a visit to Pakistan, where he engaged in discussions with the country’s leadership and key officials. The visit, which took place on the 12th and 13th of this month, included meetings with the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The talks focused on the expansion of cooperation between Pakistan and the IAEA, particularly in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology to combat climate change.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Director General held formal discussions with the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission and the Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority. During these meetings, he was briefed on Pakistan’s advancements in nuclear science and technology, which have made significant contributions to the fields of agriculture, healthcare, and energy production.

In Islamabad, Mr. Grossi participated in an international conference organized by the Pakistan chapter of Women in Nuclear Field (WIN-Pakistan). He commended Pakistan’s efforts in promoting women’s participation in nuclear and allied disciplines. Additionally, he delivered a keynote address at a seminar organized by the Strategic Vision Institute, focusing on the ‘Role of Nuclear Science and Technology in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals’.

During his visit to Lahore, DG IAEA visited the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore (INMOL), where he inaugurated a new radiopharmaceutical laboratory. He also announced technical assistance under the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative. Furthermore, he toured the under-construction Chashma Power Plant unit 5 (C-5), highlighting Pakistan’s nuclear power generation programme as one of the most successful in the world. His visit also included the inauguration of a radioactive waste incinerator at Chashma.

The visit underscores Pakistan’s active role as a founding member of the IAEA, with the country enjoying a robust cooperation programme with the Agency. Pakistan is noted for its contributions to the IAEA’s decision-making process as a member of its Board of Governors. The IAEA is globally recognized as the Specialized United Nations Agency for cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear technology.