Overview
- In a Dec. 24 video message, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi praised the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission’s nationwide network of 21 cancer hospitals and its training of specialists, citing institutes such as NORI.
- Grossi reported more than 100,000 cancer deaths each year in Pakistan and over 10 million globally, warning that cancer mortality could rise by 75% by 2050.
- He underscored the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, which provides radiotherapy machines, supports research, and delivers training and education to expand treatment capacity.
- Recalling his recent visit, Grossi said he met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, toured diagnostic and treatment facilities, and inaugurated the country’s first CyberKnife unit.
- He reaffirmed cooperation on peaceful nuclear projects with Pakistan, noting progress at Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit‑5 as evidence of broader civil nuclear advancement.