Pakistan Just Signed the Paperwork on Its Newest Nuclear Reactor — Here's What C-5 Actually Means

Pakistan and the IAEA have formally signed the safeguards agreement for Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (C-5) in Vienna, with PAEC Chairman Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar and IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi putting pen to paper on the sidelines of the 70th IAEA General Conference — witnessed by China Atomic Energy Authority Chairman Shan Zhongde.

What C-5 Actually Delivers

The new unit carries a gross capacity of 1,200 megawatts and is expected to become operational by 2030, adding a substantial source of low-carbon electricity to Pakistan's national grid while supporting energy security and climate goals.

Why This Signing Matters Beyond the Ceremony

This formal signing follows the IAEA Board of Governors' unanimous approval of the agreement back in March 2026 — described at the time as reflecting the international community's continued confidence in Pakistan's commitment to peaceful nuclear energy use and its adherence to non-proliferation obligations.

A Track Record Behind the Trust

Pakistan currently operates six nuclear power plants with a combined capacity of 3,620 MW(e), maintaining an average capacity factor above 90% and more than 100 reactor-years of safe operating experience.

China's Visible Presence in the Room

The presence of China's Atomic Energy Authority chairman alongside Pakistani and Chinese permanent representatives at the signing underscored the strong Pakistan-China partnership in peaceful nuclear cooperation that underpins projects like Chashma.

The Bottom Line

From board approval in March to ink on paper in Vienna, C-5 has moved from a proposal to a formally safeguarded project — one more step toward a reactor that, once running in 2030, is expected to meaningfully add to Pakistan's low-carbon power supply.