The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) holds an important position in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technology worldwide. Its annual General Conference provides a platform for member states to discuss global nuclear issues, cooperate on technological advancements, and ensure compliance with international norms on nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation. The 68th IAEA General Conference, held in Vienna, was an especially significant gathering, where 178 member states and nearly 3,000 participants from international organizations and non-governmental bodies addressed some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today, from climate change and food security to cancer treatment.
Pakistan’s participation in the 68th IAEA General Conference showcased the country’s active role in advancing the peaceful use of nuclear energy and technology, its contributions to various IAEA initiatives, and its commitment to addressing global challenges. This article focuses on Pakistan’s role, as articulated by its delegation, and its efforts in harnessing nuclear technology for sustainable development, energy security, and public health, among other areas.
1. Pakistan’s Commitment to IAEA’s Mandate
Pakistan’s national statement at the IAEA General Conference emphasized the country’s long-standing commitment to the IAEA’s initiatives, highlighting the pivotal role of nuclear science in addressing the existential threats humanity faces today. Nuclear technology, as Pakistan’s delegation noted, is crucial in tackling climate change, enhancing agricultural productivity, improving healthcare, and ensuring food and water security.
Read More: Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels & the Way Forward
The IAEA’s focus areas, such as Atoms for Food, Rays of Hope (a program dedicated to improving cancer care), and Atoms for Climate Change, resonated strongly with Pakistan’s national priorities. The delegation reiterated the country’s full support for the IAEA’s mission and emphasized Pakistan’s belief in nuclear technology’s potential to foster a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.
2. Nuclear Energy for Climate Change Mitigation
In a world increasingly focused on combating climate change, Pakistan has positioned nuclear energy as a central component of its clean energy strategy. The country’s nuclear power program has been a reliable source of sustainable, low-carbon energy for over five decades. Currently, Pakistan operates six nuclear power plants, contributing 3,530 MW to the national grid, which constitutes 17% of the country’s electricity supply and accounts for 30% of its low-carbon energy generation.
In its statement at the conference, Pakistan highlighted how nuclear power has helped it avoid more than 100 million tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by replacing fossil fuel-based power generation. As global temperatures continue to rise, Pakistan is one of the top ten most vulnerable countries to climate change, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions.
Read More: Evolving Geopolitical Dynamics and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Regime
The country has faced devastating consequences, such as severe floods and water shortages, which have underscored the need for a resilient and sustainable energy system. Nuclear energy, with its proven reliability and low environmental impact, offers a critical solution to these challenges.
Looking to the future, Pakistan plans to expand its nuclear energy capacity, with another nuclear power plant expected to be commissioned by 2030. The country’s 100 reactor years of experience in operating a safe and secure nuclear power program, combined with its commitment to international safety standards, positions it as a leader in the region for sustainable energy development.
3. Contributions to Global Public Health: Cancer Care and Beyond
Pakistan’s contributions to global public health, particularly in the field of cancer care, were a focal point of its presentation at the IAEA General Conference. The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has played a crucial role in providing high-quality cancer treatment to the country’s population. With 19 cancer hospitals under its purview, PAEC has become a cornerstone of cancer diagnosis and therapy in Pakistan. These hospitals carry out more than one million diagnostic and therapeutic procedures annually, significantly contributing to public health outcomes.
In recognition of these efforts, the IAEA has designated Pakistan’s Nuclear Medicine, Oncology, and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI) as an IAEA Anchor Center under the Rays of Hope initiative. This distinction highlights Pakistan’s role as a key partner in the global fight against cancer. The initiative aims to strengthen cancer treatment capabilities in member states, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to cancer care remains a significant challenge.
Read More: Visit of CISS delegation to International Atomic Energy Agency HQ, Vienna
Pakistan takes pride in being part of the Rays of Hope initiative, and the country’s first batch of trainees has already completed their training at NORI, further enhancing the nation’s capacity to provide cutting-edge cancer care. Pakistan’s commitment to improving cancer care aligns with its broader health strategy of using nuclear technology to enhance the well-being of its citizens and contribute to global health outcomes.
4. Nuclear Technology in Agriculture and Food Security
Food security is another critical area where nuclear technology has played a transformative role in Pakistan. Through institutions like the Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB), Pakistan has utilized nuclear techniques to improve crop yields, develop pest-resistant varieties, and ensure food safety. These advancements have been essential in supporting the country’s agricultural sector, which is highly vulnerable to climate change and extreme weather events.
The IAEA has recognized Pakistan’s achievements in the field of agricultural research by designating NIAB as an IAEA Collaborating Center. This designation underscores the global significance of Pakistan’s work in agriculture and biotechnology. Additionally, NIAB has been identified as a national laboratory under the IAEA’s Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC) program, which aims to strengthen global capabilities to combat zoonotic diseases—those that spread from animals to humans, such as COVID-19.
In 2023, NIAB organized a regional meeting on food safety, which was attended by key stakeholders from across the region. The meeting, aimed at promoting cross-border collaboration on food safety and trade, was a testament to Pakistan’s leadership in this area. By leveraging nuclear technology, Pakistan is not only improving its domestic food security but also contributing to regional and global efforts to address hunger and malnutrition.
5. Nuclear Security and Safety: A National Priority
Nuclear security and safety have always been a top priority for Pakistan, and the country has established a comprehensive nuclear security regime that meets both domestic and international obligations. Pakistan’s decades of experience in operating nuclear facilities safely and securely have been instrumental in its success in this area.
The National Institute of Safety and Security (NISAS) and the Pakistan Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security (PCENS) play crucial roles in providing training and technical support for nuclear safety and security. NISAS, an IAEA Collaborating Center, offers state-of-the-art training opportunities for national and international stakeholders, while PCENS has grown into a prominent hub for nuclear security training in the region.
Read More: Nuclear Power Sparking Green Revolution for Net Zero
In May 2024, Pakistan signed a Practical Arrangement with the IAEA, further enhancing cooperation on nuclear security training. This arrangement will enable Pakistan to host IAEA activities, bringing together experts from around the world to collaborate on improving nuclear security standards. Pakistan’s collaboration with the IAEA in this area reflects its status as a responsible nuclear state, committed to the peaceful use of nuclear technology and the prevention of nuclear proliferation.
6. Gender Parity and Capacity Building in Nuclear Science
Pakistan is also dedicated to empowering women in the nuclear field, as evidenced by its participation in the IAEA’s Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Program. This program, launched by the IAEA to encourage young women to pursue careers in nuclear science and technology, has already benefited several Pakistani fellows. These women have enrolled in degree programs at the prestigious Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), further contributing to the country’s growing cadre of female nuclear scientists.
As an IAEA Collaborating Center, PIEAS plays a vital role in offering capacity-building programs in nuclear education at both national and international levels. Pakistan’s commitment to gender parity in the nuclear field aligns with the IAEA’s broader goal of achieving equitable representation within the agency’s workforce. By supporting initiatives like the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship, Pakistan is helping to ensure that women have the opportunity to contribute to the peaceful applications of nuclear technology.
Pakistan’s participation in the 68th IAEA General Conference highlighted its leadership in the peaceful use of nuclear technology across various sectors, from energy and health to agriculture and security. The country’s commitment to the IAEA’s initiatives and its collaboration with other member states underscore the vital role that nuclear technology can play in addressing global challenges. As Pakistan continues to expand its nuclear energy program, improve cancer care, and contribute to food security, it remains a key partner in the IAEA’s mission to harness the power of nuclear science for the benefit of humanity. Through its efforts, Pakistan is helping to shape a safer, more sustainable, and more equitable future for all.
This article was published in another form at: https://defensetalks.com/pakistans-role-at-the-68th-international-atomic-energy-agency-general-conference/
Syed Ali Abbas is Research Officer & Comm Officer at the Center for International Strategic Studies (CISS) Islamabad. He is also an MPhil scholar in the Department of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University (NDU) Islamabad.