Vienna, 28 September 2022 (TDI): The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) hosted a Ministerial Level Meeting to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA).

Several prizes were given out at this ceremony to highlight achievements in the RCA programme. Pakistan was honoured with three prizes in the individual and institute categories during the event held in Vienna, Austria.

In the institute category, the Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH) was awarded for its contributions to nuclear science and technology applications.

Two Pakistani scientists received RCA Project Awards in the individual category.
Two Pakistani scientists received RCA Project Awards in the individual category.

These include isotope hydrology, water resource management, industry, and air and marine pollution. Two Pakistani scientists received RCA Project Awards in the individual category.

Dr Azam Tasneem, retired Chief Scientist of PINSTECH, was honoured for his contributions as Lead Country Coordinator in the fields of isotope hydrology and water resource management.

Pakistan was honoured with three prizes in the individual and institute categories during the event held in Vienna, Austria
Pakistan was honoured with three prizes in the individual and institute categories during the event held in Vienna, Austria

While Dr Irfan Ullah, Deputy Chief Scientist, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology (INMOL), was also recognised for his contributions to cancer diagnosis and therapy (theranostics).

Regional Cooperative Agreement

The RCA is a formal inter-governmental agreement that provides a framework for the Asia Pacific Region to enhance collaboration in the field of nuclear science and technology.

This is done through programmes and initiatives based on the unique common needs of its 22 member countries.

Pakistan is dedicated to continuing its partnership with the IAEA to advance sustainable development goals through nuclear science and technology, and to expanding on these collaborations.

International Atomic Energy Agency

The IAEA, widely known as the world’s “Atoms for Peace and Development” institution inside the United Nations family, is the international centre for nuclear cooperation.

The Agency collaborates with its Member States and several international partners to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.

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The development of a new Regional Programme Framework, an assessment of the program’s socioeconomic impact, and preparations for its 50th anniversary are among the outcomes of a recent Meeting of National Representatives to the Regional Co-operative Agreement for Nuclear Science Research, Development, and Training.