Vienna: Pakistan has been elected to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the 2024-26 term. The election occurred at the 68th Session of the IAEA’s General Conference, securing Pakistan’s position from the Middle East and South Asia region. This marks Pakistan’s 21st term on the IAEA’s Board of Governors.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the unanimous election of Pakistan reflects its robust engagement with the IAEA and a commitment to advancing the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The country has been an active member of the IAEA since its inception and has significantly contributed to the Agency’s policy-making processes.

Pakistan’s involvement with the IAEA includes hosting an Anchor Centre for Cancer Care as part of the Rays of Hope initiative and operating four Collaboration Centres in various sectors including Food & Agriculture, Nuclear Safety & Security, Water Resource Management, and Innovative Nuclear Technology Applications. Additionally, Pakistan operates six nuclear power plants with a combined capacity of 3530 MW and is currently constructing another facility with a capacity of 1200 MW.

The country’s role extends to sharing its nuclear technology expertise through the IAEA’s Technical Cooperation programme, aiming to enhance global nuclear safety and security standards. Furthermore, Pakistan’s recent election as the President for the Tenth Review meeting of the Convention on Nuclear Safety underscores its leadership in nuclear safety and governance on the global stage.