UNITED NATIONS: In a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly, Pakistan’s Ambassador Munir Akram underscored the nation’s commitment to the safety and security of its nuclear power program. He emphasized the need to remove barriers that hinder equitable and non-discriminatory access to civil nuclear cooperation.
Ambassador Akram highlighted Pakistan’s extensive experience in operating a secure and fully safeguarded nuclear power program, which includes six nuclear power plants with a combined capacity of 3,530 megawatts. The construction of an additional nuclear power plant, Chashma unit 5, with a capacity of 1200 megawatts, is underway.
Pakistan views the safety and security of its nuclear program as a “national responsibility” and is party to several international instruments related to nuclear safety and security, complying rigorously with global standards.
Emphasizing the importance of equitable access, Ambassador Akram called for the elimination of barriers that obstruct access to civil nuclear cooperation, stressing that all states must fulfil their safeguards obligations. He cautioned against using the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) safeguards for partisan political objectives and stressed the need for their non-discriminatory application.
In light of recent developments, Pakistan proposed the convening of a special session of the General Assembly to establish a new consensus on disarmament and non-proliferation. This consensus aims to eliminate discrimination and double standards inherent in existing non-proliferation arrangements and promote peaceful nuclear energy under international safeguards, aligning with the obligations of states and operating on a non-discriminatory basis.
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The Ambassador also expressed Pakistan’s continued support for the IAEA’s role in the promotion of peaceful nuclear technology and its positive collaboration with the agency.
Furthermore, Ambassador Akram highlighted Pakistan’s significant role in addressing healthcare needs, with 19 cancer hospitals operated by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission providing essential care to over 80% of cancer patients.
Lastly, he stressed the vital role of nuclear power in mitigating climate change and transitioning to a low-carbon energy future, particularly in a world grappling with climate challenges.
Pakistan’s reaffirmation of its commitment to nuclear safety, equitable access to civil nuclear cooperation, and its role in addressing climate change through nuclear power reflects the nation’s dedication to these important global issues.
