China, Pakistan pledge to boost cooperation on infrastructure, mining projects

ISLAMABAD: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday for a two-day official visit, during which he is scheduled to meet key political leaders, attend seminars, and visit a nuclear power generation site, the foreign office said.
The IAEA is the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, overseeing global efforts to promote safe and peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Pakistan has cooperated with the agency since 1957 and maintains an active civil nuclear power program under its safeguards.
While Pakistan is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, it has voluntary safeguards agreements with the IAEA and actively engages with it on nuclear security to ensure its facilities meet international safety standards.
“Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano @rafaelmgrossi, has arrived in Pakistan on a two-day official visit,” the foreign office announced on X, formerly Twitter.
“Pakistan is one of the largest recipients under IAEA’s Technical Cooperation Program, covering nuclear energy, health, water resource management, food & agriculture. His visit deepens Pakistan-IAEA partnership on peaceful uses of nuclear technology.”
During his visit, Grossi will hold talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
He will also participate in seminars hosted by the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). Grossi’s itinerary includes visits to the Chashma Nuclear Power Generating Station (CNPGS) and Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Oncology Lahore (INMOL), a medical facility that offers free cancer treatment.
Pakistan, which is a member of the IAEA Board of Governors, has been advocating for inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), arguing that its nuclear program meets international safeguards criteria.
The country actively engages in IAEA conferences, policy discussions and technical workshops, reinforcing its commitment to peaceful nuclear applications.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday opened the newly renovated National Bank Stadium in Karachi, ahead of the 50-over Champions Trophy tournament.
The facility features world-class dressing rooms for players and match officials, complemented by high-quality hospitality rooms, according to the PCB.
In addition to the new pavilion, 350 LED lights and two digital replay screens have been installed at the stadium to improve broadcast quality, besides the addition of over 5,000 new chairs to enhance spectator comfort.
The eight-team Champions Trophy will be staged from February 19 to March 9 in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, although arch-rival India’s matches will be staged in the United Arab Emirates after they refused to play in Pakistan.
“This upgrade is a testament to our vision of elevating Pakistan’s cricketing venues to international standards,” PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said in a statement.
“The National Bank Stadium, which last saw a major overhaul during the 1996 World Cup, now stands as a modern, world-class facility that will not only host domestic and international matches but also provide players and fans with a top-tier experience.”
Pakistan last held a major tournament in 1996, when it co-hosted the World Cup with India and Sri Lanka, before a forced hiatus over security concerns.
Nearly 5,000 dedicated workers contributed tirelessly to transforming the Karachi stadium, ensuring its full operational readiness for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi said the “incredible” workforce behind the stadium’s transformation deserved immense appreciation.
“Their hard work has made it possible for us to proudly present the National Bank Stadium as a world-class venue, ready to welcome top cricketing action,” he added.
Last week, Pakistan also opened the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore after a 117-day renovation work, during which LED floodlights, larger score screens, new hospitality boxes and upgraded seating were installed.