ISLAMABAD: The International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi concluded a significant visit to Pakistan, commending the nation’s strides in nuclear science and technology and efforts to enhance women’s participation in the field. The visit focused on expanding cooperation, particularly in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology.

According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Director General Grossi met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, discussing collaborative opportunities in addressing climate change through nuclear technology. The talks also involved key figures like the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission and the Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

In Islamabad, Grossi attended an international conference organized by Women in Nuclear Field (WIN-Pakistan), where he acknowledged Pakistan’s initiatives to promote gender equality in nuclear and related sectors. He further addressed a seminar on nuclear science’s role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, hosted by the Strategic Vision Institute.

Grossi’s itinerary included a visit to Lahore’s Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology, where he opened a new radiopharmaceutical laboratory and pledged technical support under the ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative. Additionally, he toured the Chashma Power Plant’s under-construction unit 5, praising Pakistan’s nuclear energy program as exemplary. A radioactive waste incinerator was also inaugurated at the site.

This visit marks Grossi’s second to Pakistan, underscoring the longstanding collaboration between Pakistan and the IAEA. As a founding member, Pakistan plays a key role in the agency’s decision-making as part of the Board of Governors. The IAEA is globally recognized as a specialized UN agency for peaceful nuclear cooperation.