ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized greater collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in terms of research on new high-yield drought-resistant crop varieties.
In a meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi on Wednesday, the prime minister emphasized collaboration in view of the impact of climate change on Pakistan and related challenges, including energy, water, and food security.
He noted the contribution of nuclear power generation to Pakistan’s energy mix as a cleaner and more affordable source of energy.
PM Shehbaz Sharif on climate change
Shehbaz Sharif hailed the ongoing cooperation between the IAEA and Pakistan in the areas of agriculture, industry, health, nuclear medicine, and power generation.
The prime minister expressed Pakistan’s full backing for various projects and programs of the Agency and conveyed Pakistan’s keenness to expand its footprints in the Agency’s work as a recipient and provider of expertise and technical assistance.
The IAEA Director General was briefed about the significant role being played by the 19 cancer hospitals operated by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) while bearing the bulk of the cancer burden in the country and offering services to the general public at nominal rates.
He agreed to the need for expanding applications of nuclear technology in countries like Pakistan to address a whole suite of climate-related challenges.
Director General Grossi expressed his appreciation for the excellent work of the agricultural research institutions in Pakistan, including NIAB, one of the IAEA Collaborating Centers in Pakistan.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s expertise in nuclear applications in different fields, the Director General noted the vital role Pakistan can play in supporting the Agency’s work, comprising its ‘Ray of Hope’ initiative for the treatment of cancer.
IAEA’s Director General is on a two-day visit to Pakistan. He will be visiting a number of nuclear facilities, cancer treatment centers, and various agricultural research institutions employing nuclear technology for sustainable development in the country.
The DG IAEA will also witness the excellent standards of nuclear safety and security being maintained by Pakistan.
