Islamabad, February 12, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to using nuclear technology as a driving force for sustainable development during a key meeting with the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano. The meeting, held on Wednesday in Islamabad, focused on strengthening the ongoing partnership between Pakistan and the IAEA, with the goal of advancing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy in the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his appreciation for the IAEA’s role in promoting nuclear energy as a viable solution to combat climate change. He commended the agency’s initiatives that leverage nuclear technology to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of clean energy. “As one of the founding members of the IAEA, Pakistan has consistently maintained a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the Agency, working together for the advancement of nuclear science and technology,” PM Shehbaz said.
The Prime Minister emphasized Pakistan’s progress in utilizing nuclear technology across various sectors, including power generation, agriculture, industry, and healthcare. With the support of the IAEA, Pakistan has made significant strides in these areas, driving socio-economic development and improving the quality of life for its citizens. “Through the IAEA’s assistance, Pakistan has seen substantial growth in nuclear power generation, industrial development, and agricultural advancements, all contributing to the nation’s overall socio-economic progress,” PM Shehbaz added.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to nuclear technology, PM Shehbaz assured that the country will continue to strengthen its cooperation with the IAEA in harnessing the full potential of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. He noted that the strategic use of nuclear technology is crucial to Pakistan’s development goals, as it can significantly enhance energy security, boost industrial output, and further progress in sectors such as healthcare and agriculture. The Prime Minister stressed that this collaboration will not only benefit Pakistan but also contribute to global efforts in sustainable development and peace.
In response, Rafael Mariano, the IAEA Director-General, praised Pakistan’s longstanding and constructive relationship with the organization. He acknowledged Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to utilize nuclear technology responsibly and effectively for the benefit of its people. Mariano emphasized that the IAEA will continue to support Pakistan’s nuclear initiatives, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to helping the country achieve its development objectives through the peaceful use of nuclear energy. “The IAEA is proud of its partnership with Pakistan and will continue to work with the country in fostering the responsible and secure use of nuclear technology,” he said.
The IAEA, established as the world’s central intergovernmental organization for nuclear cooperation, is dedicated to ensuring the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear science and technology. The organization plays a vital role in supporting its member states in meeting international standards and achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Pakistan and the IAEA have had a collaborative relationship dating back to 1957, and the continued cooperation reflects both parties’ shared commitment to advancing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
Mariano’s visit to Pakistan underscores the deepening partnership between the two sides, reaffirming the shared goal of utilizing nuclear technology for the socio-economic development of the country. His visit is part of a broader outreach effort by the IAEA to strengthen international cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology, which is essential for promoting global stability and environmental sustainability.
With nuclear energy poised to play an increasingly important role in Pakistan’s future, the collaboration between the country and the IAEA holds significant promise for advancing sustainable development and contributing to the global efforts in addressing climate change.