Vienna/Islamabad; September 15, 2026: Achieving a significant milestone in the history of Pakistan’s nuclear power program, Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) signed the Safeguards Agreement for Chashma Unit-5 (C-5) with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), at the Agency’s Headquarters here on the sidelines of the 70th IAEA General Conference (GC). The signing ceremony was witnessed by Mr. Shan Zhongde, Chairman, China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA).
The Agreement between Pakistan and the IAEA for the Application of Safeguards at Unit-5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant was unanimously approved by the IAEA Board of Governors at its meeting in March 2026. The signing marks an important step towards the implementation of safeguards for C-5 and reflects the international community’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and its adherence to international non-proliferation and safeguards obligations.
Construction of C-5 is progressing rapidly, with the project achieving significant milestones, including the early completion of its dome placement. With a gross capacity of 1,200 MW(e), C-5 is scheduled for commissioning in 2028. Upon completion, the unit will add a substantial source of low-carbon and low-cost electricity to Pakistan’s national grid, contributing to energy security, climate objectives and sustainable economic growth.
Pakistan currently operates six nuclear power plants with a combined installed capacity of 3,530 MW(e). These plants have maintained an average capacity factor exceeding 90 per cent. With more than 100 reactor-years of operational experience, Pakistan has a strong record of safe, secure and safeguarded nuclear power operations in accordance with international standards.
Earlier, a bilateral meeting was held between the delegations of Pakistan and China to discuss ongoing and future cooperation in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology. The Pakistani delegation was led by Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman PAEC, while the Chinese delegation was headed by Mr. Shan Zhongde, Chairman CAEA. Mr. Mohammad Kamran Akhtar Malik, Ambassador of Pakistan to Austria and Permanent Representative to the IAEA, was also present during the interaction.
Chairman PAEC also participated as a keynote speaker in two high-level side events organized by the China Atomic Energy Authority, the Permanent Mission of China in Vienna and leading Chinese organizations working in the field of nuclear science and applications.
