Islamabad: Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), visited Pakistan on February 12-13, 2025. The visit focused on enhancing collaboration in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology to address climate change.

According to a statement by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Grossi met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister. Discussions emphasized expanding cooperation between Pakistan and the IAEA, particularly in leveraging nuclear technology for climate mitigation efforts.

During his visit, Mr. Grossi conducted formal talks with the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA). He received briefings on Pakistan’s advancements in nuclear science, including its contributions to agriculture, healthcare, and energy production.

In Islamabad, the IAEA Director General attended an International Conference organized by the Pakistan chapter of Women in Nuclear Field (WIN-Pakistan). He commended Pakistan’s initiatives to promote women in the nuclear sector. Additionally, he delivered a keynote address at a seminar organized by the Strategic Vision Institute (SVI), focusing on nuclear science’s role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

While visiting Lahore, Mr. Grossi inspected the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore (INMOL), inaugurating a new radiopharmaceutical laboratory. He also announced technical assistance under the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative.

Mr. Grossi visited the under-construction Chashma Power Plant unit 5 (C-5) and praised Pakistan’s nuclear power generation program. He also inaugurated a radioactive waste incinerator at Chashma, highlighting the country’s successful nuclear initiatives.

This visit marks Mr. Grossi’s return to Pakistan since his last visit in 2023. Pakistan, a founding member of the IAEA, maintains a robust cooperation program with the agency and actively participates in the IAEA’s decision-making process as a Board of Governors member.