ISLAMABAD ( The COW News Digital) Pakistan and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have signed a new Country Programme Framework (CPF) for nuclear cooperation, marking the fifth such agreement between the two sides. The framework, which will remain in effect from 2026 to 2031, aims to deepen collaboration in peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology for socio-economic development.
According to an official statement, the signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), who signed the agreement on behalf of Pakistan, and the IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, who signed on behalf of the agency.
Under the framework, Pakistan and the IAEA will work together in five key priority areas: food and agriculture, human health and nutrition, climate change and water resource management, nuclear power generation, and nuclear and radiation safety.
Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar emphasized that the agreement reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology and its role in achieving sustainable development goals. He stated that IAEA’s support has been instrumental in advancing Pakistan’s capabilities in areas such as cancer treatment, high-yield crop production, efficient irrigation techniques, and nuclear power safety.
The CPF is expected to provide Pakistan with access to technical expertise, training, and resources that will strengthen the country’s ability to address challenges such as food security, energy shortages, and climate change. Pakistan has been a member of the IAEA since 1957 and has consistently worked with the agency to utilize nuclear technology for civilian purposes.
Experts note that this agreement will further consolidate Pakistan’s international standing as a responsible nuclear state and bolster its efforts to integrate nuclear solutions into key economic sectors. The collaboration is also likely to enhance Pakistan’s capacity to meet the increasing demand for clean energy and to ensure nuclear safety and security in line with global standards.
The IAEA described the agreement as a “roadmap for joint efforts” to promote innovation, technical cooperation, and sustainable development.
