ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Tuesday said Pakistan is a committed nuclear non-proliferation state and all its nuclear power plants as well as research reactors are under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, fulfilling all global obligations adequately.

Speaking to Director General IAEA Yukiyo Amino here at the PM House, he said Pakistan was actively expanding its power production potential by utilising nuclear technology to address country's severe energy crisis.

Premier Sharif said Pakistan, with the help of IAEA, was making use of nuclear technology in several areas including power production, medicine, agriculture, food preservation and water management for the benefit of its people.

Pakistan enjoys close cooperation of the IAEA since 1957, under the 'Atoms for Peace' initiative, said the PM, adding that the country values this cooperation for peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

Sharif appreciated the positive role played by the IAEA in the development of peaceful use of nuclear technology for human resource development in various scientific disciplines and establishment of R&D facilities at different centers in the country.

The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) was striving hard to meet the country’s power requirements, said Sharif. He said the PAEC has benefited significantly from IAEA's program on Cancer Therapy and Control in member states.

“Every year, a large number of its scientists and engineers benefit from IAEA sponsored activities and share their knowledge and experience in specific fields while Pakistani experts render valuable services to other IAEA member states.”

Prime Minister Sharif said that his government values its relationship with the IAEA and expressed hope for further strengthening the existing cooperation.

DG IAEA Amino appreciated Pakistan's commitment to use of nuclear energy for benefit of its people and extended his support for the cause.