Islamabad, Feb 16: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, concluded his two-day visit to Pakistan on February 13, 2025, reaffirming the strong partnership between Pakistan and the global nuclear watchdog. According to the Foreign Office Spokesperson, the visit underscored Pakistan’s commitment to harnessing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, particularly in addressing climate change, healthcare, agriculture, and energy production.
During his visit, DG Grossi met with Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, and other senior officials to explore avenues for expanding cooperation in nuclear science and technology. He held formal discussions with the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA), where he was briefed on Pakistan’s advancements in nuclear research, safety, and applications across various sectors.
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In Islamabad, Grossi attended the International Conference organized by Women in Nuclear Field (WIN-Pakistan), where he lauded Pakistan’s efforts in enhancing women’s participation in nuclear sciences. He also delivered a keynote address at a seminar hosted by the Strategic Vision Institute (SVI), emphasizing the role of nuclear technology in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Continuing his engagements, Grossi traveled to Lahore, where he visited the Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Oncology Lahore (INMOL). During the visit, he inaugurated a state-of-the-art radiopharmaceutical laboratory and pledged further technical assistance under the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative, aimed at improving cancer treatment facilities.
In a significant visit to the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant, Grossi inspected the under-construction Chashma-5 (C-5) reactor and praised Pakistan’s nuclear energy programme as one of the most successful in the world. He also inaugurated a radioactive waste incinerator, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to nuclear safety and environmental responsibility.
This visit marks Grossi’s second official trip to Pakistan, following his 2023 tour, and further strengthens the country’s role as a key contributor to the IAEA’s initiatives. As a founding member of the IAEA and an active participant in its Board of Governors, Pakistan continues to play a pivotal role in shaping international nuclear policy and cooperation.
