Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, currently on an official visit to Vienna, reiterated Pakistan’s backing for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its efforts to promote the responsible and peaceful application of nuclear technology.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier met IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi at the Vienna International Centre. During the meeting, he highlighted Pakistan’s continued support for the agency’s work in key sectors including cancer diagnosis and treatment, agriculture, nuclear energy production and various industrial uses.
The prime minister commended the strong cooperation between Pakistan and the IAEA, noting that while Pakistan benefits from the agency’s technical assistance programmes, it also contributes through the expertise of its professionals and by hosting international training programmes for member states.
Grossi, in turn, acknowledged Pakistan’s experience in the peaceful use of nuclear technology and praised the competence of its engineers, scientists and technicians. He particularly appreciated Pakistan’s role in strengthening nuclear safety and security under the IAEA framework.
The IAEA chief observed that Pakistan is well positioned to assist other member states in expanding peaceful nuclear applications and expressed anticipation for Pakistan’s active participation in the upcoming Nuclear Energy Summit to be hosted by France in March 2026.
During the visit, an agreement was signed designating the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology (INMOL) in Lahore as an IAEA collaborating centre. The accord was signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Grossi.
In a post on X, Dar described the meeting as productive, stating that discussions focused on advancing peaceful nuclear technology and enhancing global nuclear safety and security. He extended best wishes to Grossi for his continued efforts in promoting sustainable development through nuclear applications.
Grossi also shared on X that he was honoured to receive the prime minister, saying the visit reflected Pakistan’s commitment to the safe and responsible use of nuclear technology. He added that designating INMOL as an IAEA collaborating centre would further strengthen cooperation in cancer care, radiopharmaceutical production and nuclear medicine services.