MIANWALI: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday called for building an economically dominant, energy-independent and environmentally resilient Pakistan, declaring that the country will harness its resources, technology and human capital to secure a prosperous future.
Addressing the dome placement ceremony of the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant (C-5) here, the prime minister described the milestone as a reflection of Pakistan’s determination to shape its own future through hard work, technological advancement and strategic partnerships.
Prime Minister Shehbaz, while emphasising the importance of energy security, said Chashma-5 represented much more than steel and concrete—rather, it was a promise of clean, reliable, and affordable electricity that would strengthen the national economy and improve people’s lives.
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He said that nuclear power would reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported fuels and international price fluctuations while ensuring a stable electricity supply for industries, hospitals, educational institutions and households.
“Pakistan will not wait for anyone, but will build its own future through its hard work and untiring efforts,” the prime minister recalled, referring to his commitment at the project’s groundbreaking ceremony in July 2023.
He noted with satisfaction that the dome had been installed less than three and a half years after the groundbreaking, ahead of schedule, and expressed confidence that the project would also be commissioned earlier than planned.
He acknowledged the role of the armed forces under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in ensuring security and stability.
He also appreciated Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s support for the government’s economic revival and development initiatives.
Underscoring Pakistan-China strategic cooperation, Prime Minister Shehbaz described Chashma-5 as another enduring symbol of the two countries’ all-weather friendship and their shared commitment to economic progress.
The prime minister conveyed his gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Chinese government and the China National Nuclear Corporation for their continued support, acknowledging the contributions of Chinese engineers and their Pakistani counterparts.
Earlier, PAEC Chairman highlighted nuclear energy’s growing contribution to Pakistan’s electricity mix and national energy security. He said the country’s nuclear power plants were safely and efficiently generating 3,530 megawatts of electricity, helping avoid approximately 15 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
The ceremony was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, senior Pakistani officials, Chinese representatives and officials from relevant organisations.