- Pakistan, Rwanda Sign Nuclear Energy Cooperation Agreement to Advance Peaceful Use of Atomic Technology
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Rwanda have signed a landmark agreement to enhance cooperation in nuclear energy regulation and the peaceful use of nuclear technology, as Rwanda moves forward with plans to develop nuclear power capabilities by 2030.
The agreement was signed on June 3 between the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), represented by Deputy Director General Claude Nkusi, and the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA), represented by Director General Zia Hussain Shah.
The signing ceremony took place in Islamabad during a visit by a Rwandan delegation and was witnessed by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Fatou Harerimana. Under the agreement, both countries will strengthen collaboration in nuclear safety regulation, technical training, capacity building, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
Officials from Pakistan and Rwanda said the partnership aims to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful application of nuclear energy while improving regulatory frameworks and institutional capabilities.
between Pakistan’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) and Rwanda Utilities Regulatory
Authority (RURA) in Kigali, Rwanda.
During the visit, the Rwandan delegation toured PNRA laboratories and related facilities, as well as the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), where they were briefed on nuclear safety measures, regulatory procedures, and operational standards. Rwanda is exploring the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as part of its long-term strategy to diversify energy sources and increase electricity generation capacity.
The East African nation is currently conducting feasibility studies for nuclear power projects, with the government targeting the start of nuclear energy utilization by 2030.
Officials said cooperation with Pakistan will provide valuable technical support as Rwanda develops its nuclear energy infrastructure and strengthens its regulatory systems.
New Chapter in Pakistan-Rwanda Relations
The agreement marks a new step in bilateral cooperation between Islamabad and Kigali, expanding ties into the fields of science, technology, and sustainable energy development.
Both sides expressed confidence that the partnership would contribute to long-term energy security and strengthen peaceful nuclear cooperation between the two countries.
BY: The Times Union
