Pakistan’s Robust Nuclear Safety and Security Regime: “A Global Role Model ”

Pakistan regards nuclear safety and security as a cornerstone of its national responsibility and accords it the utmost priority. As a responsible nuclear state, Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its proactive engagement with the international community to uphold and promote the highest standards of nuclear safety and security. It has ensured robust protection of nuclear and radioactive materials, as well as all associated facilities, across the country.

Nuclear Safety

The Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA), an independent regulatory body, has developed a comprehensive and sustainable nuclear safety framework for power reactors. It has also established advanced response and recovery mechanisms for radiological sources. PNRA continuously enhances its regulatory framework by incorporating extensive national experience and aligning safety standards promulgated  by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Its regulatory oversight program adheres to globally recognized best practices and has undergone rigorous peer reviews by international experts through various IAEA Expert Missions such as Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS).

IAEA recognized Pakistan's expertise in the arae of nuclear safety and security through the designation of National Institute of Safety and Security (NISAS), an ISO 9001:2015 certified institute, as its Collaborating Centre in 2022.

Nuclear Security

Pakistan has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to nuclear security by establishing a robust and centralized command structure. At the helm of this framework is the National Command Authority (NCA), chaired by the Prime Minister, which exercises supreme oversight on all matters pertaining to nuclear security and strategic assets. To ensure seamless policy implementation and coordination, the Strategic Plans Division (SPD) serves as the NCA's dedicated Secretariat. This institutionalized approach underscores Pakistan's resolute dedication to maintaining the highest standards of nuclear security in the country. Pakistan is privileged to have the opportunity to host various IAEA activities, where experts from both the IAEA and Pakistan collaborate to provide training, in the area of nuclear security, to participants from both within the country and Member States.

As a recognition its expertise, a Practical Arrangement between IAEA and PCENS was signed in May 2024. This cooperation will further enhance IAEA’s training activities for Nuclear Security in the region.

Furthermore, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and global cooperation, Pakistan also published a detailed report in May 2024 outlining the key elements of its Nuclear Security Regime, may be accessed below: