Pakistan and IAEA sign safeguards agreement for Chashma-5

Pakistan and the IAEA sign the safeguards agreement for 1,200MW Chashma-5, unanimously approved by the IAEA Board in March 2026. C-5 is scheduled for commissioning in 2028 and will add low-carbon, low-cost electricity to Pakistan's national grid while supporting energy security. Agreement unanimously approved by IAEA Board of Governors in March C-5 scheduled for commissioning in 2028 to strengthen energy security Signing reflects confidence in Pakistan's peaceful nuclear energy commitment VIENNA: The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday signed the Safeguards Agreement for Chashma Unit-5 (C-5), unanimously approved by the IAEA Board of Governors at its meeting in March 2026, marking an important step towards implementation of safeguards for the nuclear power project. The signing also 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. PAEC Chairman Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar signed the Safeguards Agreement for C-5 with IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi at the Agency's headquarters here on the sidelines of the 70th IAEA General Conference (GC), said a statement issued by the PAEC. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Chairman China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) Shan Zhongde. 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 March 2026 meeting. The signing marks an important step towards implementing safeguards for C-5 and underscores the international community's continued confidence in Pakistan's 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 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 PAEC Chairman Dr Raja Ali Raza Anwar, while the Chinese delegation was headed by CAEA Chairman Shan Zhongde. Pakistan's Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the IAEA Mohammad Kamran Akhtar Malik was also present during the interaction. The PAEC chairman also participated as a keynote speaker in two high-level side events organised by the China Atomic Energy Authority, the Permanent Mission of China in Vienna and leading Chinese organisations working in the field of nuclear science and applications. DPM, IAEA DG agree on vitality of Islamabad MoU's implementation In a related development, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar spoke with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who is also a candidate for United Nations secretary-general, the Foreign Office (FO) said. During the telephonic discussion late Monday night, they discussed the evolving regional situation and agreed that implementation of the Islamabad MoU between the United States and Iran remained the best course of action to defuse tensions. Ambassador Grossi offered technical support should the need arise. Deputy Prime Minister Dar reaffirmed Pakistan's enduring commitment to advancing the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and respecting international law and treaties. He also highlighted the crucial importance of the UN system in advancing the global peace and development agenda, and wished Ambassador Grossi well in his campaign for the office of UNSG.