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Pakistan and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have signed a safeguards agreement for Chashma Unit-5 (C-5).
The agreement marks a major step in Pakistan’s nuclear power programme.
Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), signed the agreement with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the IAEA.
The signing took place at IAEA headquarters in Vienna on the sidelines of the agency’s 70th General Conference.
Shan Zhongde, Chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), witnessed the ceremony.
The IAEA Board of Governors unanimously approved the safeguards agreement in March 2026.
The agreement establishes the framework for applying IAEA safeguards to Chashma-5.
The signing now marks an important step towards implementing those safeguards.
It also reflects international confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
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Pakistan has continued to operate its nuclear power programme under international safeguards and non-proliferation obligations.
Construction of Chashma-5 is progressing rapidly, according to PAEC.
The project has already achieved several major milestones. These include the early completion of the reactor dome placement.
C-5 will have a gross capacity of 1,200 MW(e).
PAEC expects the unit to enter service in 2028.
Once operational, the reactor will add a major source of low-carbon electricity to Pakistan’s national grid.
The project aims to support energy security and climate objectives. It could also contribute to long-term economic growth by providing low-cost electricity.
Pakistan currently operates six nuclear power plants.
Together, they have an installed capacity of 3,530 MW(e).
The plants have maintained an average capacity factor of more than 90%.
Pakistan also has more than 100 reactor-years of operational experience.
PAEC said this record demonstrates the country’s experience in safe, secure and safeguarded nuclear power operations.
The commission said its nuclear facilities operate in line with international standards.
Pakistani and Chinese delegations also held a bilateral meeting in Vienna.
The two sides discussed ongoing and future cooperation in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.
Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar led the Pakistani delegation.
Shan Zhongde headed the Chinese delegation.
Mohammad Kamran Akhtar Malik, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the IAEA, also attended the meeting.
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and China in nuclear science and related peaceful applications.
PAEC Chairman Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar also participated as a keynote speaker at two high-level side events.
The China Atomic Energy Authority, the Permanent Mission of China in Vienna and leading Chinese organisations working in nuclear science and applications organised the events.
His participation highlighted Pakistan’s engagement in international discussions on the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
The Chashma-5 safeguards agreement adds another milestone to Pakistan’s expanding nuclear power programme as the country seeks reliable and low-carbon energy sources.
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