The 64th General Conference of International Atomic Energy Agency was held from 21st-25th September 2020. This year, many delegates attended the event through video link becvaus eof Covid-19 pandemic. Chairman Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Mr. Mohammad Naeem (HI. SI) addressed the conference through a video recorded national statement. Chairman PAEC highlighted that Pakistan is benefitting immensely from the use of nuclear technology. He said that Pakistan has the mutually beneficial relationship with IAEA. During the first day of the Conference, Director General IAEA Rafael Mariano Grossi highlighted the role of the IAEA in the monitoring and verification of nuclear activities across the globe. He also highlighted various steps taken by the IAEA to help Member States contain the spread of COVID-19. Chairman PAEC congratulated ambassador Azzeddine Farhane on his election as the President of the 64th GC and extended Pakistan’s full support and cooperation. Mr. Muhammad Naeem reiterated Pakistan’s commitment towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by using nuclear energy which is a clean, affordable and reliable energy source.

He shared that the two 1100 MWe Nuclear Power Plants are near completion and are expected to be connected to the national grid by the next year which will eventually help in fighting climate change. Chairman PAEC highlighted the role of PAEC in helping Pakistan attain socio-economic development goals through application of nuclear technology in diverse fields like agriculture, healthcare, engineering and manufacturing. Chairman PAEC thanked the IAEA for its support during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stated that by nuclear technology can help in diagnosing and treating various pathologies. He further stated that Pakistan is committed to the goal of women empowerment and is offering fellowships at PIEAS under the Madam Marie Curie Fellowship Program which has been launched by DG IAEA. PIEAS is a leading university in the field of nuclear technology in Pakistan and is recently designated as an IAEA Collaboration Centre. Chairman PAEC stated that Pakistan considers it as a national responsibility and that Pakistan has developed a comprehensive and stringent safety and security regime which is regularly reviewed and upgraded in accordance with IAEA’s guidelines. He appreciated IAEA for the continued support and mutual cooperation and hoped that this cooperation would expand further in future.

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