Unanimous IAEA approval for Chashma Unit 5 safeguards agreement

ISLAMABAD (Rizwan Abbasi): Pakistan has achieved an important milestone in nuclear diplomacy as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors has unanimously approved the Safeguards Agreement for Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant.

The confirmation was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Officials stated that this development reflects the international community’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s peaceful nuclear energy program.

Chashma Unit 5 will have a power generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW) and is expected to become operational by 2030. Once completed, the new unit will supply low-carbon electricity to the national grid, helping strengthen Pakistan’s energy security and support its climate goals.

Currently, Pakistan operates six nuclear power plants with a combined installed capacity of 3,530 MW. Over the past year, nuclear energy contributed 18.3 percent to the national electricity mix and accounted for 34 percent of total low-carbon electricity generation.

Officials also highlighted that Pakistan has more than 100 reactor-years of experience in safely operating nuclear power plants. All facilities operate under international safety standards and safeguards.

Analysts believe that the IAEA’s approval is not only a boost for Pakistan’s energy sector but also a recognition of its responsible and transparent approach to the peaceful use of nuclear technology.