Chinese envoy visits Karachi nuclear power plants

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong on Saturday became the first Chinese ambassador to visit an operational nuclear power plant in Pakistan.

His visit to the Karachi Nuclear Power Plants K-2 and K-3 reactors marks a milestone in Pakistan-China cooperation on nuclear energy. The ambassador’s visit follows the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chinese-designed nuclear power plants, held in November 2013 and presided over by then ambassador Sun Weidong.

The K-2 and K-3 projects began generating electricity in May 2021 and April 2022, respectively, with a combined capacity of 2,200MW of clean, cost-effective energy added to the national grid.

During the visit, Ambassador Jiang praised the collaboration between the Chinese power company and Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) for their successful completion of the projects. He also thanked PAEC chairman for ensuring the safety and security of the Chinese workforce, in coordination with law enforcement agencies.

In his remarks, Ambassador Jiang emphasized the importance of expanding Pak-China strategic and bilateral cooperation, not only in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) but also in non-CPEC projects, particularly in the power sector. He highlighted that Chinese power companies should play a broader role in strengthening Pakistan’s economic foundations.

The ambassador also touched on the ongoing negotiations for the 1,200MW Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 5 (C-5) in Mianwali, expressing full support for its execution. He stressed that the project would further enhance Pakistan’s nuclear power potential.

Additionally, Jiang underscored the need for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives benefiting local communities around the Karachi nuclear power plants and promised continued Chinese support in this area. He noted that the Chinese commercial counselor would soon visit the K-2 and K-3 sites to assess operations and coordinate CSR efforts.

The ambassador was accompanied by key officials from the Chinese consulate and embassy in Karachi, signaling China’s commitment to bolstering Pakistan’s clean energy ambitions. The envoy’s visit came before the expected visit of Chinese PM to Pakistan in October.