Chashma-5 takes shape with reactor dome placement

The ceremony was also attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chinese engineers, senior officials and representatives of relevant organisations. Shehbaz appreciated the dedication of engineers, technicians and workers from Pakistan and China.

"We must increasingly harness our resources and human capital to build a Pakistan that is economically stronger, energy-secure and environmentally responsible," he said. Highlighting the importance of clean energy, he said the C-5 project was a manifestation of the country's commitment to clean and emissions-free electricity generation.

The prime minister also commended the Chinese partners, saying the milestone reaffirmed the "all-weather friendship" between Pakistan and China and their unwavering commitment to expanding strategic cooperation in economic, security and development sectors. The C-5 project will have a generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts and is expected to commence electricity generation in September 2030.

In his opening remarks, the PAEC chairman said nuclear power continued to play an important role in Pakistan's energy security by providing reliable and low-carbon electricity. "Pakistan's nuclear power plants are safely and efficiently generating 3,530 MW of electricity and helping avoid approximately 15 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually," he said.

He added that nuclear energy accounted for around 16.6% of the country's electricity generation despite representing only 8.6% of its installed capacity. Its share of electricity generation rises to 26% during winter.