On Monday, Pakistan achieved a major milestone in its energy sector with the commencement of the formal construction phase of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 5 (C-5). The ceremony, which involved the first pouring of concrete, was attended by key figures, including Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, and Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar.
The groundbreaking for this ambitious project took place on July 14, 2023, when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the C-5 project. As the largest and most advanced nuclear power plant project in Pakistan’s history, C-5 is being developed with Chinese assistance, further strengthening the long-standing bilateral collaboration between the two nations.
Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar highlighted the vital role of nuclear energy in ensuring Pakistan’s energy security. The addition of C-5 to Pakistan’s national grid is expected to contribute an additional 1,200 MW of clean energy, significantly enhancing the country’s nuclear energy capacity, which will rise to 4,760 MW once C-5 is operational. Anwar emphasized that nuclear energy is a clean, efficient, and cost-effective source of electricity that can reduce Pakistan’s reliance on expensive fossil fuels while supporting socio-economic development.
C-5 is not only a symbol of the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China but also a key element in Pakistan’s broader energy strategy. As part of the continued collaboration between the two countries, six nuclear power plants have been built in Pakistan since the 1990s, all with Chinese support.
Ahsan Iqbal, the chief guest at the event, praised the C-5 project as a significant achievement in Pakistan-China relations. He noted that, during its construction, the project would create thousands of jobs, contributing to economic growth. Iqbal stressed that projects like C-5 are critical to transitioning Pakistan into a technology-driven economy, providing affordable clean energy while reducing the country’s dependency on costly energy imports.
The Minister also lauded the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission for its consistent progress in harnessing nuclear technology for power generation, citing its excellent safety record in line with global nuclear safety standards.
Once completed, the C-5 unit will greatly enhance Pakistan’s energy mix by providing reliable baseload electricity. The plant is expected to alleviate power shortages and contribute to environmental sustainability. This aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals of reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and making strides in clean energy initiatives.
The groundbreaking ceremony underscored the importance of Pak-China cooperation in the fields of energy and technology, with C-5 serving as a beacon of progress in Pakistan’s energy sector.
At the ceremony, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong expressed his congratulations on the commencement of the C-5 project and thanked the supporters of the longstanding China-Pakistan partnership. Ambassador Zaidong noted the steady progress of China-Pakistan relations, especially in practical cooperation, despite challenges posed by the complex international environment. He specifically highlighted the growing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, including C-5, as a testament to the enduring strength of bilateral cooperation.
Zaidong also outlined the future vision for deepening CPEC’s development, which includes fostering closer ties between the two nations in various sectors, including agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. He emphasized the importance of “upgrading” CPEC to include innovative approaches that can better address regional and global challenges while ensuring mutual benefits.
The Chinese ambassador elaborated on the multifaceted potential of future projects between the two countries. He mentioned that beyond energy, Pakistan and China have achieved significant success in mining cooperation, which could be expanded further to enhance economic growth. Zaidong noted that mining cooperation, particularly in copper, has already provided substantial economic returns and job creation, which serves as a model for other sectors.
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He also discussed the importance of integrating market-driven strategies into future projects. This approach, he argued, would not only benefit China and Pakistan but also contribute to expanding the commercial footprint of both nations, especially through increased exports of agricultural and industrial goods. Ambassador Zaidong stressed the need to explore third-party markets, particularly in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, where the unique advantages of Pakistan’s location and resources, combined with China’s technological expertise, could yield profitable outcomes.
While celebrating the achievements of C-5 and other ongoing projects, Ambassador Zaidong also acknowledged the challenges posed by the rapidly changing global economy. He urged both countries to remain confident and resilient in navigating these difficulties, particularly in ensuring the smooth continuation of CPEC projects.
The ambassador emphasized the importance of adapting to new economic and political realities by maintaining a focus on sustainable development, innovation, and economic cooperation. By fostering a deeper “heart connectivity” between the people of China and Pakistan, the two countries can ensure a stronger and more prosperous future.
In conclusion, China and Pakistan’s energy cooperation, embodied by the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 5, marks a new chapter in their strategic partnership. Both countries are committed to leveraging their strengths to overcome challenges and create a lasting, mutually beneficial alliance. As C-5 progresses, it will not only enhance Pakistan’s energy sector but also serve as a catalyst for broader economic growth and technological advancement. The successful completion of C-5, along with continued cooperation on other projects, will undoubtedly fortify the bond between Pakistan and China and help both nations navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.
This momentous project is just the beginning of a more prosperous and sustainable future for both nations, driven by shared goals of energy security, technological innovation, and economic development.
