IAEA Director General Visits Pakistan to Promote Nuclear Science
Dr. Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is currently on a two-day official visit to Pakistan, during which he participated in several events focused on nuclear science and technology on Wednesday.
Meeting with the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission
During his visit, Dr. Grossi met with Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), along with its members. This meeting centered on advancing nuclear science and technology in Pakistan, particularly emphasizing PAEC’s role in implementing the IAEA’s ‘Atoms for Peace and Development’ program.
Celebrating Women in Nuclear
Dr. Grossi also attended a Women in Nuclear (WiN) event at the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) headquarters. Here, he acknowledged the significant efforts to empower women in the nuclear science and technology sectors, which are instrumental for the country’s advancement. The event was organized by the WiN Pakistan Chapter, associated with WiN-IAEA.
Women’s Empowerment in Nuclear Fields
In his address at the WiN event, Dr. Grossi underscored the IAEA’s initiative that has seen the employment of women in the agency double over the past five years. He commended the efforts to integrate women into nuclear and related fields in Pakistan, stating, “Nuclear sciences have been pivotal in health, notably in cancer diagnosis and treatment. It is heartening to see women advancing in crucial sectors, especially in nuclear science and technology.”
Seminar at NUST
The IAEA DG later participated in a seminar on Nuclear Science & Technology at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad. Organized by the Strategic Vision Institute (SVI), the seminar shed light on how nuclear technology fosters socioeconomic development across agriculture, healthcare, and energy generation.
Nuclear Science for Sustainable Development
While addressing the seminar, Dr. Grossi stressed the importance of nuclear science and technology in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. He remarked on Pakistan’s robust history of collaboration with the IAEA, emphasizing that the constructive application of nuclear technology is crucial for global development and the betterment of humanity.
Meetings with Government Officials
During his visit, Dr. Grossi also had discussions with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, further strengthening the ties between Pakistan and the IAEA.
